MMDA announces new mall hours starting October 15

Filipino Christmas season is considered to be the lengthiest holiday celebration by some. While all that we want to give this time of the year is joy, it is inevitable finding yourself in the middle of heavily-congested roads – especially those that are around shopping places like malls and bazaars.

In an effort to address traffic during this season, the Metropolitan Manila Development Association (MMDA) and owners of malls around Metro Manila—especially the ones along EDSA—have agreed to adjust operation hours. Starting October 15, 2017 to January 15, 2018, mall hours will be 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. 

Of note, delivery hours are only allowed to take place from 11 p.m. until 5 a.m. only. However, MMDA Assistant General Manager for Planning Jojo Garcia said that deliveries of perishable goods are exempted. 

In addition, mall sales will only be conducted during weekends starting October 15.

Mall owners welcome the move to help address the impending traffic situation during this season, especially every payday Friday. They say that aside from being good for the public, it's good for the business, as well. Among the malls that support this move are Ayala Malls, SM Supermalls, Robinson's, Starmall, Shangri-La, and Rockwell.  

Photo courtesy of Patrick Roque.