The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will deploy 2,542 traffic personnel during Holy Week and has implemented a no day off policy for its personnel on 16, 17 and 21 April.
MMDA Traffic Enforcement Group director Atty. Victor Nuñez said that the agency anticipates a surge of travelers at various transportation terminals in the metropolis during this period.
Nuñez also disclosed that the MMDA conducted random drug testing on 50 bus drivers last Friday, and all results were negative.
From 16 to 20 April, the agency will allow provincial buses to enter EDSA, with northbound buses terminating in Cubao and southbound buses at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX).
Nuñez disclosed that buses with worn-out tires or drivers without licenses will not be permitted to operate and drivers who test positive for drugs will undergo confirmatory testing and will be prohibited from driving pending the results.
The MMDA has been conducting inspections, particularly in the northern and southern areas where major terminals are located. The agency, in coordination with the Department of Transportation, has been monitoring terminals since last Friday and observed a significant number of passengers, especially at PITX.
It also expects the peak of passenger traffic to occur on 15 and 16 April as people travel to their respective provinces for the Holy Week.
MMDA chairperson Atty. Romando Artes issued an order last week to intensify operations against illegal public transportation, particularly in Cubao, Quezon City, which has resulted in numerous apprehensions.