Despite floods, Metro Manila traffic 'normal' says MMDA

MANILA, Philippines - Even as Manila roads were submerged in floodwaters, traffic conditions remain "normal," the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said Monday.

Vinzon Villarda of MMDA-Metrobase said that traffic flow along EDSA, the major highway traversing the metro, continues to be light.

"Traffic is smooth on all other portions of EDSA and Ortigas," Villarda said, adding that traffic conditions in C5, Commonwealth and Quezon Avenue, are likewise normal.

The southbound lane from Monumento to Boni Avenue experiences light to moderate traffic as Malacañang has suspended government work and schools' classes due to tropical storm "Maring" that intensified the southwest monsoon.

Ortigas also has a slight traffic build-up along the eastbound lane from San Juan to Pasig.

In Manila, Senior Police Officer I John Falanzon of Manila Police District-Traffic Division, meanwhile, said that the highway from Quirino-Taft Avenue until Vito Cruz as well as España Avenue are impassable due to flooding.

Rizal Avenue-Tayuman, Doroteo Jose corner Rizal Avenue, and both directions fronting the Manila City Hall along Burgos are also impassable.

"Plaza Sta. Cruz going to Palanca, on the other hand, has knee-deep floodwaters," Falanzon added. - Camille Diola