Remembering Loved Ones on All Saints’ Day: A Journey Through Light Traffic and Shared Memories
Sunday morning, November 1st, marked a special day in the Philippines as families made their way to cemeteries to honor their departed loved ones for All Saints’ Day, or Undas. As they set out for this meaningful journey, the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) welcomed them with a calm, almost serene traffic flow.
A Glimpse of NLEX
By 11 a.m. on that busy Sunday, a gentle rhythm of light traffic prevailed across key points on NLEX:
– Balintawak Toll Plaza: Light
– Mindanao Toll Plaza: Light
– Bocaue Toll Plaza: Light
– San Simon Northbound: Light
– San Simon Southbound: Light
– San Fernando Northbound: Light
The NLEX team reported that the tranquility extended throughout the expressway, including all toll plazas and interchanges on NLEX, SCTEX, and the NLEX Connector.
The Flow of SLEX
Meanwhile, SLEX mirrored the gentle handling of traffic as well. As families traveled along familiar routes, the roads remained peaceful:
– Buendia to Balintawak: Light
– Magallanes/Makati to Alabang: Light
– Alabang to Santo Tomas: Light
The atmosphere was relaxed, with motorists enjoying the easy drive, perhaps reflecting on cherished memories of those they were visiting.
A Busy PITX
The Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) was abuzz with life, boasting foot traffic of 71,085 passengers by 11 a.m. Enthusiastic travelers flocked to bus terminals even a week before Undas, eager to secure their tickets and beat the holiday rush. This was a scene filled with the mingling of anticipation and nostalgia—passengers armed with photos and stories, ready to remember those they hold dear.
Upcoming Changes
As families came together in reflection and remembrance, it’s worth noting that the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority reminded everyone about the number coding scheme that will be in effect on All Souls Day, November 2. This gentle nudge was a reminder for everyone to plan their travels accordingly.
As we honor and celebrate the lives of those who have touched our hearts, the smooth journey on these expressways speaks to the spirit of togetherness that fills the air. This All Saints’ Day was not just about visiting graves, but about reconnecting with memories, sharing stories, and keeping the bonds alive—an emotional tribute that unites families across the country.
