Manila: The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) is anticipating a surge in vehicular traffic along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) as the holiday travel season commences on Saturday. This increase is expected as residents of the National Capital Region (NCR) begin their holiday journeys.

According to Philippines News Agency, TRB Spokesperson Julius Corpuz mentioned during a 'Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon' interview on PTV that peak travel seasons, such as the Christmas and New Year holidays, typically lead to a five to ten percent rise in traffic along these major expressways. Many schools are now closed for the holidays, and a significant number of workers are on leave, contributing to the expected increase in traffic volume.

In preparation for the anticipated traffic surge, all toll lanes on NLEX and SLEX have been opened, as part of the toll operators' commitment to managing the increased vehicular flow. There will be a full deployment of security personnel, patrol vehicles, and traffic management teams to facilitate smooth traffic movement.

Furthermore, incident response teams, including ambulances, medical personnel, tow trucks, and fire trucks, will be strategically positioned to ensure rapid response to any emergencies. Technicians will also be on standby to address any system or equipment issues that may arise.

In the event of heavy congestion, traffic management strategies such as a counter-flow scheme and the immediate deployment of barriers at toll gates are prepared to be implemented. Concurrently, construction activities that might disrupt traffic flow will be temporarily suspended, although non-disruptive projects will continue to ensure timely completion and benefits from ongoing expansion works.

Motorists are also reminded to ensure their vehicles are in good condition before embarking on their journeys, using the acronym BLOWBAGETS (Battery, Lights, Oil, Water, Brake, Air, Gas, Engine, Tire, and Self) as a checklist for vehicle readiness.