THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is all set in preparations to ensure an orderly observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on November 1 and 2, respectively.
MMDA has dispatched members of the Task Force Special Operations to clear roads leading to cemeteries of obstructions while Metro Parkway Clearing Group personnel are sprucing up the vicinity of major cemeteries within Metro Manila early this week.
MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia said in a recent press briefing, “We leave the responsibility of cleaning inside cemeteries to local government units. We are also calling on the public to keep cemeteries clean and tidy.”
More than 2,000 traffic personnel were deployed on critical areas from morning until evening to ensure the smooth flow of traffic on major thoroughfares and identified traffic-prone areas in the metropolis.
“MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim declared a No Dayoff, No Absent policy for MMDA traffic personnel from October 27 to November 3,” added Garcia.
The number coding scheme is suspended on November 1 and 2, declared special non-working holidays.
Major cemeteries under the MMDA’s watch are Manila North in Manila City, Manila South in Makati City, Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina City, Bagbag Public Cemetery in Quezon City, and Manila Memorial Park in Paranaque City.
Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will reactivate the Lakbay Alalay Program to provide assistance to the public until November 4.
DPWH Secretary Mark A. Villar has ordered all DPWH implementing offices to set up assistance centers, which will be stationed at major thoroughfares along national roads and bridges on a round-the-clock shift starting 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday October 31 to 12 noon of Monday, November 4.
To ensure smooth flow of traffic, DPWH maintenance teams shall ensure that national highways, especially those leading to both public and private cemeteries, are safe and cleared from potholes, obstructions including illegally-parked vehicles and vendors, and equipped with proper lighting and warning signage.
The motorist assistance teams shall also coordinate with Land Transportation Office (LTO), Philippine National Police (PNP), local government units (LGUs), and other concerned agencies for any required assistance.
“We are hoping that through our Lakbay-Alalay teams, we can help everyone get the chance to visit memorial cemeteries, columbaria including churches and commemorate memories of their dearly departed safe and free from any inconvenience,” said Secretary Villar.
On the other hand, Petron Lakbay Alalay is also ready to give the “best biyahe” for motorists during the Undas weekend.
As they make their stop at designated Petron stations on major highways, motorists can experience a variety of services that will make their journeys safer and more enjoyable. Petron employee volunteers will offer a BLOWBAG Safety Check covering Battery, Lights, Oil, Water, Brakes, Air (tire pressure), and Gas. Free parking and traffic assistance is available for a smooth and hassle free stop.
Motorists can also be a road safety advocate by joining the stickering campaign.
To appreciate the importance of using seatbelts and the dangers of drunk driving, they can also try out the seatbelt simulator and fatal vision goggles.
Safety checks by automobile partners, free medical assistance, and a 15-minute massage can also be availed for free at Lakbay Alalay tents located at the parking lot of the stations. Food and lifestyle partners also offer product sampling and other fun activities. Underscoring Petron’s commitment to total customer service, clean and accessible rest rooms will also be ready for customers at all times.
To serve the motorists traveling out of Metro Manila, there will be Petron Lakbay Alalay activations on Wednesday, October 31 from 12 noon to 8:00 p.m. at the following Petron service stations:
- North Luzon: PEC1 NLEX, Marilao Bulacan; Parkville Km 42 Plaridel, Bulacan; Lakeshore NLEX, Mexico, Pampanga; and TPLEX Km 134 Northbound, Pura, Tarlac.
- South Luzon: PEC 3 SLEX, San Pedro, Laguna; PNCC Km 44 SLEX, Silangan, Cavite; and Star Tollways, Malvar, Batangas.
On Thursday, November 1, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Petron Lakbay Alalay will also be present at the F. Ignacio Station on Dr. A. Santos Ave., Sucat, Parañaque, to provide assistance to those visiting major memorial parks in the area.
Assisting homebound motorists on Sunday, November 4, the Petron Lakbay Alalay teams will be at the following stations from 12 noon to 8:00 p.m.:
- North Luzon: PEC 2 NLEX, Bocaue, Bulacan and TPLEX Km 134 Southbound, Pura, Tarlac.
- South Luzon: Star Toll, Lipa City, Batangas and MATES, SLEX Km 44, Silangan, Cavite.