MMDA starts early Undas preps amid Asean Summit buildup

MANILA, Philippines—Traffic and road management preparations for Undas will begin earlier than usual this year as the observance coincides with the activities for the 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Summit.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) made the announcement on Wednesday, Oct. 21.

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The Asean summit will take place from November 16 to 18.

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MMDA chair Atty. Don Artes said the agency is coordinating with partner agencies and local government units for the orderly movement of people and vehicles ahead of the two major events.

READ: LTFRB clears 1,131 buses for Undas travel surge

The agency held an interagency coordination meeting with stakeholders and representatives of local government disaster risk reduction and management offices to align plans on public safety.

“We urge the public to cooperate with our traffic personnel, follow traffic advisories, and plan their trips accordingly,” Artes said.

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Over 2,000 operatives to be deployed

From Oct. 24 to Nov. 3, the MMDA will deploy more than 2,000 (2,419) personnel to manage traffic flow and assist the public around major cemeteries.

It will also enforce a “No day off, No absent” policy for its traffic field personnel on Oct. 29 and 30, as well as Nov. 3.

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Surprise inspections

The MMDA will inspect bus terminals and conduct surprise drug testing on drivers and conductors at selected terminals.

The inspections and drug testing will be conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Philippine National Police. /apl

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