The Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) expects a 10 percent increase in traffic along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) due to the Undas 2021. Despite the announcement that cemeteries will be closed during the Undas, the tollway operator still anticipates more travelers will go home to their provinces for the long weekend.
An increase in traffic volume is expected due to this year's observance of Undas
That said, the MPTC is implementing its “Safe Trip Mo Sagot Ko” (SMSK) to accommodate the increased volume of motorists during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
As with the observance of Holy Week earlier this year, the SMSK is rolled out to assist motorists, ensuring safe and convenient travel for everyone. The program will also make sure that the proper health protocols are observed at all times, which is important as more motorists are expected to go out and traverse the company’s expressways.
“We remain committed to provide our motorists with ease of travel, ensure their safety, and assist them immediately this season as we also continue to observe COVID-19 protocols for the protection of our customers and employees,” said MPTC President and CEO Rodrigo E. Franco.
MPTC gears up for the long weekend
To ensure a safe and comfortable journey, MPTC is deploying around 1,200 patrol crews, traffic marshals, security teams, and lane personnel. The traffic management teams will be on extended working hours to monitor the increase in traffic in Balintawak, Mindanao, Bocaue, San Simon, San Fernando, and Tarlac, among others.
In addition, Class 1 or light vehicles are offered with 24-hour towing service to the nearest exit for free. It is available from October 29, 6:00 a.m. to November 2, 6:00 a.m.
More people will be going to their provinces in the coming days
MPTC manages expressways that use the Easytrip RFID cashless toll payment system. These expressways include NLEX, SCTEX, Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX), Cavite-Laguna (CALAX), and C5 Link. The company is encouraging motorists to avail of an RFID account for faster trips.
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