The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is keen on implementing a multi-pronged approach to mitigate the expected surge in traffic during the Christmas season.

With an estimated 500,000 vehicles anticipated to clog Metro Manila roads, the agency is working closely with the 17 Metro Manila mayors and mall operators to ease congestion.

“For the past years, we’ve managed to somewhat alleviate traffic congestion, especially on major roads,” said MMDA chairperson Atty. Don Artes. “Even with a similar number of vehicles, we’ve devised strategies to distribute traffic flow by extending operating hours.”

Recognizing that mall traffic is a major contributor to congestion, the MMDA and mall owners agreed to adjust operating hours.

Since 18 November until 25 December, malls opened at 11 a.m. instead of the usual 10 a.m. while closing times were determined by individual mall operators.

To further minimize traffic disruption, the MMDA has suspended all road diggings during the holiday season, with exceptions for public utilities and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) from 26 December to 2 January.

Data collected by the MMDA shows that the average vehicle volume on EDSA has reached 421,000 per day, with speeds declining from 20-21 kilometers per hour to 19 kph northbound and 18 kph southbound.

To encourage the use of public transportation, the MMDA is urging commuters to plan their travel, avoid rush hour, and ensure their vehicles are in good condition.

On 20 December, the MMDA allowed provincial buses limited access to EDSA from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. while from 26 December to 2 January, 24/7 access will be granted due to lighter traffic flow during that period.

The MMDA anticipates approximately 2,100 provincial buses traversing Metro Manila during the holiday season.