Local tourists savor Metro Manila without traffic

As people head out to the provinces, some local tourists took the chance to visit Metro Manila for the Holy Week.

They were greeted by EDSA and some parts of the capital region that are almost without traffic, far from the congested roads on a typical day.

In Sandra Aguinaldo’s report on “24 Oras” on Thursday, Louella Capistrano and Jehielle Teves from Negros Oriental shared their experiences in touring popular landmarks, including the so-called dolomite beach and the National Museum.

“Noong nag-visit nga po ako sa National Museum nakita ko 'yung Spoliarium. Parang teary-eyed ako na nakita ko na sa personal 'yung sa libro ko lang nakikita. Nakita ko 'yung EDSA...sumakay din ako ng LRT,” Capistrano said.

(We saw the Spoliarium when we visited the National Museum. I got teary-eyed because I personally saw something I have only seen in books. I also saw EDSA and rode the LRT.)

Teves added: “It's like a breath of fresh air being in a place na sobrang daming building [that has a lot of buildings].”

Parts of Metro Manila are visibly less crowded as establishments temporarily close and workers and residents go home to their respective provinces. A traffic-free EDSA was also observed.

Meanwhile, Rizal Park in Manila remains open to the public while swimming activities are still not allowed at Baseco Beach.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) conducted a “Bisikleta Iglesia '' to increase police visibility and to ensure public safety.

“Nasa heightened alert po tayo ngayon. So, habang ang ating mga kababayan ay umuwi sa kanilang mga probi-probinsya, pumupunta sa iba't ibang tourists destinations, ie-ensure natin na nakalatag ang public safety and security,” PNP Officer-in-Charge Police Lieutenant Rhodel Sermonia said.

(The PNP is currently under heightened alert. While the residents are in their provinces or in various tourist destinations, we will ensure that public safety and security are upheld.)—Sundy Locus/LDF, GMA Integrated News