QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — A weekly teleradyo program, “Impormasyon at Aksyon sa Bagong Pilipinas” or IABP, being presented by the Philippine Information Agency National Capital Region (PIA-NCR) over Radyo Pilipinas DZRB (738 AM) and broadcast live on Facebook, focused on transportation updates and holiday travel tips as the season ramps up.
The show on Wednesday, December 18, is being hosted by Director Emver P. Cortez and Information Officer Jenny Rose G. Red, alongside episode guest Jumalynne V. Doctolero, also an information officer of PIA-NCR.
According to Doctolero, citing reports from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the daily limit for vehicles on EDSA is set at 225,000, but recent reports indicate that traffic has surged to 464,000 vehicles.
This number is expected to increase by 10 to 15 percent over the coming weeks as more Filipinos travel for the holidays.
To accommodate this influx, provincial buses have been permitted to use EDSA from December 20 to January 2, facilitating smoother travel for those coming from the provinces to Metro Manila.
In response to the anticipated traffic congestion, the MMDA has deployed an additional 1,900 traffic enforcers, extending their duties from 12 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily.
Regular clearing operations have also been implemented on Mabuhay Lane, a designated alternate route for provincial buses.
The program also addressed holiday travel concerns for pet owners. Doctolero shared tips on how to care for pets during the holiday season, advising residents to leave pets with trusted neighbors or family members if they cannot be taken along. For those traveling with pets, the MRT and LRT allow small animals in proper carriers, while buses have similar regulations.
For those planning to explore during the holidays, the MMDA encouraged residents to take advantage of lighter traffic and visit various attractions in the National Capital Region.
Suggested destinations include museums, parks, and the newly renovated Sentro de Tourismo in Intramuros, which features a bazaar and street food options.
Meanwhile, the IABP announced Presidential Car Museum in Quezon City has also recently opened, showcasing road safety education for children.
Cortez and Red highlighted a shift in travel habits among the younger generations, noting that Millennials and Gen-Z are increasingly inclined to travel both abroad and domestically, often prioritizing work-life balance and experiences over material possessions.
As the holiday season approaches, the program aims to equip viewers with essential information for safer and more enjoyable travel experiences. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
