The Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) is anticipating a surge in passengers, with an expected 2.5 million travelers for Holy Week 2025.
In an exclusive interview with DZRH Public Service Hour on Wednesday, PITX Spokesperson Atty. Jason Salvador mentioned that there is already a noticeable increase in travelers at the terminal, as expected.
He also noted that several passengers have chosen to begin their Holy Week vacation early, which has contributed to the elevated passenger count at the terminal today.
"Magmula today hanggang sa Wednesday after Holy Week, ang aming pagtaya abutin tayo ng hindi babasa sa 2.5 million passengers na dadaan sa PITX," said Salvador.
Salvador explained that the expected number of passengers includes those from Manila returning to their provinces, as well as those from the provinces traveling to Metro Manila.
Meanwhile, for this week alone, the number of passengers is expected to increase over the weekend, with the likelihood that it will exceed 200,000.
The terminal official stated that several trips are already fully booked. Among the routes that frequently reach full capacity are those to Bicol and Baguio, with regular trips to these destinations filling up early.
Preparations for Holy Week exodus
"Matagal na nating pinaghandaan ito kasi alam naman natin na ito ‘yung isa sa panahon na talagang nagsisiuwian ang ating mga kababayan," said Salvador.
One of the primary preparations at PITX is ensuring the supply of public transportation. Salvador noted that their administration has already met with bus operators to ensure there will be enough additional units.
The meeting also included discussions with regulators, such as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), to ensure the prompt issuance of special permits.
"Kasi alam naman natin na pagkaganitong Semana Santa ay tumataas ang demands. Kinakailangan ng mga biglaang additional units," Salvador explained.
"Ang maganda lang, ang LTFRB ay nag-i-issue on the ground ng mga special permits kaya naman hindi mahihirapan ang mga kababayan natin," he added.
Safety
In terms of safety, two key factors are involved. First, public vehicles must be roadworthy, which means they need to be in perfect working order, including functional brakes, lights, wipers, and other key components. Second, these vehicles must have the appropriate paperwork.
Another crucial aspect of safety is the condition of the driver. They must be physically fit, well-rested, properly nourished, and, above all, free from the influence of any substances prohibited by law.
Salvador also mentioned that in coordination with the LTO and PDEA, random drug tests are being conducted on drivers and conductors, as well as breathalyzer tests, to ensure the safety of passengers who are being transported to their respective provinces.
He shared that no one has tested positive in the random drug tests, and the conductors are being carefully examined, especially given that they sometimes step in as substitute drivers.
If someone tests positive in the aforementioned tests, their license will be confiscated, and they will undergo a confirmatory test. If the result is still positive, their license will be suspended for one year.
Reminders to passengers
Salvador reminded passengers to purchase their tickets in advance to avoid inconvenience or delays.
Passengers are encouraged to travel light, not just to make their journey more comfortable, but also to allow fellow travelers the opportunity to bring gifts to their families.
