The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has advised Filipinos to plan their shopping trips early as it anticipates a 20-percent surge in vehicle volume that could worsen traffic situation during the Christmas rush.
This increase is expected as more people flock to malls and markets to complete their holiday shopping activities. The agency urged consumers to visit commercial centers nearest to their homes to avoid being stuck in traffic jams across the metropolis.
The MMDA also advised motorists to brace for heavy traffic on Dec. 19, the last Friday before Christmas, due to the influx of last-minute shoppers, holiday gatherings and other events, and people going to and from provinces.
By planning ahead, the people can minimize delays and make their holiday shopping experience more enjoyable.
“Make your Christmas shopping hassle- and stress-free by planning ahead of time. This way, heavy traffic, long queues in parking, and crowded malls can be avoided,” said MMDA chairman Romando Artes.
There are 131 malls in the National Capital Region, and 29 of them are located along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA).
The MMDA will deploy additional personnel to manage traffic on identified choke points on EDSA. The agency also extended the working hours of its traffic personnel, especially those assigned for night duty near shopping centers.
Mall operators have agreed with the MMDA proposal to adjust business hours to ease road congestion during the peak buying season.
The agency also intensified anti-illegal parking operations, particularly along Mabuhay Lanes, which are alternative routes for those who want to avoid EDSA.
The agency is expecting a 20 percent increase in traffic volume this Christmas because of the influx of people and vehicles from Cavite, Laguna, Bulacan, and Central Luzon.
