On Easter Sunday, Filipinos began returning to Metro Manila after a restful four-day Holy Week break, just in time for the resumption of work and school on Monday.
At bus terminals along EDSA in Kamuning and Cubao, Quezon City, passengers started arriving from the provinces even before sunrise, as reported by Carlo Mateo on Super Radyo dzBB. Dispatchers noted that the bulk of travelers were expected later in the day and early Monday morning.
Despite the rush, there were enough buses heading to the provinces to pick up returning passengers. A minor traffic buildup was observed near terminals due to the arrival of buses and waiting taxis.
In Pasay City, passengers from Quezon and Batangas began arriving at the Taft Avenue terminal as early as 3 a.m., according to Manny Vargas. Some buses even left empty for the provinces to ensure a timely pickup of Manila-bound travelers.
Security was tight at bus terminals, with police actively patrolling the area. Authorities also reminded commuters to remain vigilant and secure their belongings.
Meanwhile, road travel remained mostly smooth:
- NLEX: No major incidents reported as of Sunday. Counterflow lanes were set up from Dau to San Fernando and in Balagtas and Bocaue to manage traffic.
- SLEX, STAR Tollway, Skyway: Traffic was light as of 6 a.m., with only a few minor road incidents reported, according to Ret. Maj. Leopoldo Vitug Jr. of Skyway O&M Corporation.
This year’s Holy Week observance was marked by regular holidays on April 17 (Maundy Thursday) and April 18 (Good Friday), and a special non-working day on April 19 (Black Saturday), under Proclamation No. 727. It’s a time when many Filipinos travel to their hometowns to observe traditions and spend time with family.