SMC Infrastructure is preparing for a 10% increase in vehicle traffic across its expressways during the Undas holiday period, deploying additional personnel and emergency response teams as more Filipinos travel to cemeteries and provincial destinations.
The company said it is coordinating with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), Land Transportation Office (LTO) and local governments to manage congestion, particularly on roads connecting expressway entry and exit points to local roads.
Under the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) Oplan Biyaheng Ayos, full staffing will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on October 29. Quick-response teams, ambulances, tow trucks and fire engines will be stationed at strategic locations along the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Skyway System, STAR Tollway, NAIA Expressway and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).
Traffic monitoring centers will also operate around the clock to help manage traffic conditions and respond to incidents. To minimize disruptions during the holiday rush, roadworks will be suspended from noon on October 29 until 10 p.m. on November 3.
Motorists can also access 24-hour emergency assistance desks at Petron service stations, providing another option for travelers who encounter problems along their routes.
SMC Infrastructure is urging motorists to plan their journeys ahead and allow extra travel time, particularly when passing through areas where expressways connect to congested local roads.
The company also recommends checking vehicles before departure, including tires, brakes, batteries, lights and cooling systems. Drivers are encouraged to get adequate rest before long trips, as mechanical problems such as overheating engines, flat tires and dead batteries can cause breakdowns and add to traffic congestion.
Toll payment preparation is another priority. Motorists are advised to ensure their Autosweep RFID accounts have sufficient load before traveling to avoid delays at toll plazas. Those who want to use a single RFID account across Luzon’s expressways may also enroll in the optional One RFID program.
For roadside emergencies, motorists can contact SLEX at 0917-687-7539, STAR Tollway at 0917-511-7827 or (043) 756-7870, TPLEX at 0917-888-0715, and the Skyway System at (02) 5318-8655.
With increased traffic expected during Undas, advance trip planning, vehicle checks and properly loaded RFID accounts can help motorists avoid preventable delays.
Autocar’s Take
A 10% increase in Undas traffic may sound manageable, but even a relatively modest surge can create long queues when expressways meet already congested city roads. SMC Infrastructure’s additional personnel, emergency teams and temporary suspension of roadworks are sensible steps, but motorists also have a role to play. Checking tires, brakes and batteries before leaving can prevent breakdowns that inconvenience everyone.
Keeping Autosweep RFID accounts loaded is equally important. Ultimately, safer and smoother Undas travel depends on preparation from both operators and drivers. Leaving early, staying rested and allowing extra travel time remain practical ways to reduce holiday stress.
