Many Filipinos are preparing for one of the longest weekends of the year because of the Holy Week. Whether heading to the beach, visiting family in the provinces, or joining a spiritual retreat, MPT Mobility reminds travelers to plan ahead for a smoother journey.
Inspect your vehicle
Before going on a long trip, check your vehicle’s condition, observe speed limits, and take regular breaks at toll service facilities. For a hassle-free drive, keep your RFID account loaded. DriveHub users can even mark their account as a favorite to reload more easily.
Plan for road congestion
Holy Week is one of the busiest travel periods, especially starting Holy Wednesday. Major toll roads such as NLEX, SCTEX, and CALAX are often filled with cars. To help avoid the rush, MPT Mobility recommends using the MPT DriveHub app. The app allows users to track traffic, reload Easytrip RFID accounts, and stay updated on road conditions.
For those without an RFID sticker, MPT advises booking appointments through the Online RFID Reservation and Appointment System (ORRAS) via DriveHub or visiting the EasyTrip website.
Expect busy destinations
Beaches, churches, and other vacation spots tend to be more crowded than usual. MPT suggests booking ahead and avoiding peak hours. Families traveling with children or senior citizens are advised to pack snacks, medicines, and entertainment for a more comfortable trip.
Book early and consider new spots
Popular destinations like Baguio, Tagaytay, and La Union usually get fully booked early. Travelers who have yet to make reservations might need to look at less popular locations or explore alternative stays.
City operations may slow down
During Holy Week, many stores, banks, and services in Metro Manila and other cities operate on shortened hours or close altogether. MPT suggests buying supplies before leaving and planning stopovers properly. Returning travelers can take a break at NLEX Drive and Dine before entering the metro.
Safety measures in place
Motorists can expect more police checkpoints and on-ground traffic support, part of MPTC’s Arangkada Assistance Program. This seasonal program offers roadside help and traffic management for smoother travel.
Check the weather forecast
While Holy Week falls during the dry season, weather can still change quickly. MPT advises packing umbrellas or raincoats and checking weather forecasts before setting off.
Discover new travel ideas
MPT recommends browsing the NLEX Lakbay Norte and Biyaheng South Facebook pages for destination ideas. Drivers in Cebu can check the CCLEX Facebook page for route suggestions and scenic locations.