MMDA deploys 2,975 personnel amid observance of Holy Week

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) deployed 2,975 traffic enforcers and emergency personnel in the National Capital Region during the observance of Holy Week.

At the Laging Handa public briefing, MMDA chairman Don Artes said the personnel were assigned to major thoroughfares, transport hubs, and other key areas around Metro Manila.

He noted that the volume of travelers was expected to increase to about 100,000 for out-of-town trips during the Lenten season.

“Magkakaroon ng adjustment sa traffic plan, particularly sa pag-dispatch ng buses para ma-accommodate ‘yung mga mananakay, lalo na sa pag dagsa ngayong Semana Santa,” Artes said.

(There will be adjustments to the traffic plan, particularly in the dispatch of buses to accommodate the passengers, especially during the influx this Holy Week.)

“Mag de-deploy tayo ng motorcycle units sa mga bus carousel para hatakin yung mga bus para hindi sila mag i-standby sa iisang lugar at para ‘yung pag-ikot ng (mga bus ay) mas mabilis at mas mapabilis 'yung pagbiyahe,” he added.

(We will deploy motorcycle units on the bus carousel route to move the buses along so they don't stay in the same place. The flow of buses will be faster and travel faster.)

Meanwhile, Artes said the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) conducted drug tests on public utility bus drivers and conductors.

“So far walo 'yung na huli na positive sa droga and immediately sinuspinde ang lisensya nila at kinumpiska para hindi na sila makapag-drive.

(So far, eight of them tested positive for drugs, and their licenses were immediately suspended and confiscated so that they can no longer drive.)

— DVM, GMA News