Despite ‘11-to-11’ scheme, traffic still heavy near Metro Manila's malls

An "11-to-11" scheme meant to ease traffic near major Metro Manila malls did not quite get the job done, at least not on its first day.

 

Traffic was tight on Friday along Epifanio delos Santos Avenue where 31 malls are located, GMA News' Susan Enriquez reported on "24 Oras."

 

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Francis Tolentino said this could be due to a range of reasons - from this Friday being a payday, to employees getting their holiday bonuses.

Traffic enforcers noted Fridays are when motorists and commuters go home to the provinces for the weekend.

 

Worse, the MMDA said traffic may remain heavy until later in the evening.

 

Last week, the MMDA and mall operators agreed on an 11-to-11 scheme where malls would operate from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. from Nov. 28 to Jan. 3.

 

On Dec. 24 and 31, malls may operate from noon to 7 p.m. On Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, they may operate from noon to 8 p.m.

 

Mixed reactions
 

The public had mixed reactions to the new mall operating hours, with some saying it did not help ease traffic.

 

But some still favored it because it allows them to shop at late hours, after they knock off work.

 

While motorists and commuters stewed in traffic, ambulant vendors selling bottled water and other refreshments are not complaining, as they had more chances to hawk their wares. — Joel Locsin/JDS, GMA News