MMDA: provincial buses to be allowed in EDSA for the holidays

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced that provincial buses will be allowed to traverse Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) for the holidays.

In an announcement, the agency said that the aforementioned public utility vehicles are permitted to enter EDSA from December 24, 2022 up to January 2, 2023.

The buses from North Luzon shall terminate their trips at the Cubao, Quezon City while those coming from the South Luzon area shall end their trips at the terminals in Pasay City.

“This is to allow the provincial buses to accommodate the expected influx of passengers going to the provinces for the holiday season and ensure the convenience and comfort of the commuters,” the MMDA said.

Relatedly, the MMDA also allowed shopping malls in the National Capital Region to resume normal operating hours starting tomorrow (Thursday, December 23).

“Due to pre-emptive measures, the anticipated traffic problems during the Christmas season did not come to pass, and an easing in the flow of traffic in Metro Manila’s thoroughfares have been observed despite the increase in Christmas-related activities,” MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Romando Artes stated in the memorandum circular released to shopping mall operators.

 "Thus, foregoing considered, shopping malls in Metro Manila may now begin operation as early as 9 a.m. starting December 23, 2022," he added.

According to Artes, the purpose of the said memo is to provide more time to those who will have their last-minute Christmas shopping.

 To recall, the MMDA and shopping mall operators agreed to adjust their operating hours to 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.  instead of their usual business hours as one of the remedial measures to reduce traffic congestion in Metro Manila at the onset of the holiday season.

Photos from Ruben D. Manahan IV, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

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