SHOPPING malls in Metro Manila will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. starting Nov. 14 as part of measures to ease traffic congestion in the capital region as the Christmas season nears, authorities announced on Tuesday.
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Acting Chairman Romando S. Artes said the adjusted mall hours was agreed upon during a meeting on Tuesday with stakeholders, including the mall operators.
In preparation for this year’s Christmas season, the mall owners and operators in the National Capital Region have agreed to adjust mall operations from 11 am until 11 pm, effective November 14, 2022 until January 6, 2023.
“We have to implement remedial measures to reduce traffic congestion,” said Mr. Artes in a statement.
“Mall wide sales will be only allowed during weekends. Also, deliveries will be during 11 pm to 5 am only. Exempted from the regulation are deliveries of perishable goods, restaurants serving breakfast, and groceries,” he said.
The MMDA head said mall operators will also be submitting their respective traffic management plans so that the agency can program the appropriate manpower deployment in different areas.
The 11-to-11 schedule will be in effect until Jan. 6, or may be lifted earlier if traffic flow eases by Dec. 26.
Mr. Artes also announced that excavation activities in Metro Manila’s national roads will be suspended from Nov. 14 to Jan. 6, except for those involving flagship projects, drainage improvement works that will not affect roads, and emergency repairs for water supply, among others. — MSJ