Security tightens at PITX ahead of Holy Week travel surge

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and transportation officials announced Friday a significant security increase at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) to prepare for the anticipated surge of travelers during Holy Week.

Daily foot traffic at the terminal is expected to reach between 230,000 and 250,000 passengers during the Lenten break.

In response, authorities will deploy additional personnel, K-9 units, and enhanced surveillance systems, including more X-ray machines and scanners.

Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, administrator of the Office for Transportation Security, said during an inspection Friday that security personnel will be assigned to six key areas within the facility.

Officials also inspected buses, the terminal’s command center, and the LRT-PITX station.

MMDA general manager Nicolas Torre III said authorities are reviewing “rooms for improvement” regarding the commuter experience. One primary concern is the congestion caused by mixing passengers bound for the EDSA Busway with those traveling to the provinces.

Agencies are studying a plan to separate these groups to ensure a more organized screening process.

During the inspection, authorities confiscated several prohibited bladed weapons. Cruz cited that inspections of goods brought in by terminal vendors will also be tightened to prevent illegal items from entering the facility.

Torre also visited the dormitory for bus drivers, where he noted a shortage of mattresses. He spoke with drivers to gather feedback on trip conditions and operational challenges.

To assist travelers, officials said more signage will be installed near restrooms and ticket booths. Passengers facing long wait times are encouraged to use the terminal’s capsule hotel, which opened in October. The facility offers nearly 50 beds at a rate of P1,000 for 21 hours.