The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority will implement adjusted mall hours in anticipation of the Christmas holiday rush, an official said on Tuesday.

"Currently the volume of vehicles is at 400,000. We expect an increase in the number of vehicles that will pass through EDSA, so we are doing the appropriate way to solve the traffic problem," MMDA acting chairman Romando Artes said.

Beginning 14 November to 6 January, malls may operate from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Groceries and restaurants are exempted from these operating hours, which cover all malls in the National Capital Region.

The order may still change "depending on the traffic situation," Artes added.