The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) on Friday conducted an inspection and security audit at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) ahead of the upcoming Holy Week.
MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III and OTS Administrator Gilbert Cruz said the inspection aims to address potential security concerns and enhance the readiness of the terminal to accommodate increased passenger traffic during the peak travel period.
The MMDA anticipates that more than three million travelers will pass through PITX during Holy Week.
“This PITX is a convergence of provincial and city buses, and they converge here. We are ensuring that they can arrive here at PITX comfortably, and they can also depart to their provinces safely,” Torre said.
He added that the inspection proceeded smoothly, evaluating the condition of the buses and the terminal’s facilities, including restrooms and dining establishments, to ensure passenger convenience.
“It’s good, and we are showing here that our land transport terminal now looks like our airport,” Torre said.
For his part, Cruz said his agency will deploy additional personnel to six areas in the terminal, K-9 units, and devices such as CCTVs, X-ray machines, and scanners to better ensure safe travel in preparation for the Holy Week influx.
In line with security measures, authorities customarily perform random drug tests on bus drivers and conductors.
The MMDA Road Emergency Group will be on standby to offer roadside emergency services, with ambulances and tow trucks positioned at key locations across the metropolis.
Additionally, inter-agency support desks will be set up near bus terminals and other transportation centers, with road emergency personnel prepared to deliver medical assistance and first aid.
