DOTr calls on Undas travelers to prepare in advance

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) urged travelers to book trips ahead of Undas 2022, as more commuters are expected this year given the loosened restrictions and the long weekend.

According to Transportation Undersecretary Mark Steven Pastor, those scheduled to travel to their respective provinces during Undas should already start preparing.

“Maigi po kung mag-book o bumili po ng ticket in advance upang maiwasan ang mahabang pila,” he said in Victoria Tulad's report on GMA’s “24 Oras Weekend” on Sunday.

“Magbiyahe nang mas may kaunting bagahe upang maging mas komportable,” he added.

(It would be better to book or buy tickets in advance to avoid long queues. Travel light to be more comfortable.)

Pastor said they expected the number of travelers would peak from Friday, October 28, to Saturday, October 29, 2022, with the department having started to inspect terminals.

The undersecretary also called on transport operators to regularly check their vehicles to ensure that these are safe for public use and that the public continues to adhere to safety protocols.

“At all times dapat ho suot natin ang ating face masks habang tayo’y nasa public utility vehicles,” he said.

(At all times we should wear our face masks while in public utility vehicles.)

Other operators have also coordinated with other agencies under the DOTr, such as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), for permits for additional trips during Undas.

Among the destinations covered by the special permits are Baguio, Vigan, Tuguegarao, Naga, Sorsogon, and Masbate.

Malacanang last week declared next Monday, October 31, a special non-working holiday, followed by November 1 also a special non-working holiday.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte declared next Wednesday, November 2, as a working day for the second straight year. — Jon Viktor Cabuenas/DVM, GMA News