The Department of Transportation (DOTr) assured Monday that the country’s transport sector is ready to accommodate millions of travelers expected to head to provinces for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days’ exodus, colloquially known as ‘Undas.’
“We are prepared for the influx of passengers across airports, seaports, and bus terminals,” Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said at a Malacañang press briefing.
Bautista said the DOTr expects “millions” of passengers to travel in preparation of Undas, noting that at least one to 1.5 million bus passengers and around three million travelers for air and sea travels.
He also stated that DOTr and agencies including the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), and Cebu International Airport have coordinated efforts under the annual “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos” program to ensure smooth operations.
The Philippine Coast Guard will also assist in managing the holiday travel rush.
Despite some storm-related damage to minor seaports in Calabarzon and the Bicol regions, Bautista reassured that all major airports and seaports remain fully operational.
Malacañang earlier declared that government offices and classes at all levels nationwide will be on half day on October 31 for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 1 and 2, which are declared special non-working holidays.
