This Week in Metro Manila (August 18 to 25, 2018)

The rainy season does not show any signs of slowing down as the weather for the week is expected to remain wet and potentially filled with thunderstorms. Travelers and residents must be wary of intense downpours and the strong winds that may accompany them. Simple precautions such as bringing umbrella and jackets are a must for daily commuters and travellers. The temperature is expected to fall between 30 to 32 °C [3]. Being updated on the weather is also a big help. Monitor the status of the weather by watching the news or listening to the radio.

Since August 15, provincial buses were prohibited from entering EDSA during weekday rush hours, as announced by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) [4]. The time period of the rush hour is from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Consequently, those commuting along EDSA might expect changes on the traffic flow at the area.

The dry run for the proposed ban for “driver only” or “single” vehicles along EDSA started last August 15, but is expected to be tested for a week. The time period of the trial falls on the hours when most vehicles are expected on the road, from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Frequent solo travellers are advised to look for alternate routes to avoid the ban [5].

Since the week contains multiple holidays, others might make use of the free time to have a staycation. According to hotel booking websites, there are many rooms available on major hotels in Manila from August 18 to 25, 2018 [6].

Since the rainy weather can be intense, be updated on flight cancellations.

Just like the previous years, mall operating hours won’t be affected by the non-working holidays as they are not major holidays like Christmas or New Year.