The annual Undas exodus is upon us again. As millions of Filipinos gear up to honor their departed loved ones, the country braces for what’s traditionally one of the heaviest travel weekends of the year. In 2025, authorities expect an even higher volume of vehicles and commuters taking to the roads, skies, and seas, marking the first long All Saints’ Day break under fully normal post-pandemic conditions.
From Metro Manila’s major exits to provincial cemeteries, every kilometer will test the limits of patience, planning, and infrastructure. To help Filipinos navigate this massive homeward surge safely, here’s your 72-hour survival guide — a look into traffic management efforts, travel forecasts, and crucial tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
All systems go: Tollway operators on high alert
Both NLEX Corporation and San Miguel Infrastructure, the operators of SLEX, STAR Tollway, and TPLEX, have announced full-scale preparations for the long weekend rush.
NLEX Corporation projects up to 15% higher traffic volume compared to regular weekends, particularly from October 30 to November 1, with peak congestion expected between 6:00 AM to 12:00 NN on Wednesday and Thursday. To ease the flow, all toll lanes will be opened, and additional traffic marshals and RFID assistants will be deployed at entry and exit points. Emergency response teams—complete with tow trucks, ambulances, and patrol vehicles—will be on 24-hour standby.
On the southern corridor, San Miguel Infrastructure announced similar measures across SLEX, STAR Tollway, and TPLEX, including the activation of “Operation Undas 2025.” The initiative features:
- Full toll booth operations and the suspension of construction works along critical stretches.
- Quick-response units stationed every 10 to 15 kilometers.
- Free roadside assistance for motorists in distress.
- 24/7 command centers monitoring real-time traffic data through CCTV and Waze integration.
Motorists are urged to use RFID lanes for faster transactions and ensure sufficient load balance before travel.
The 72-hour traffic forecast: When (and when not) to travel
Based on past Undas travel data from both NLEX and SLEX, and preliminary forecasts from the MMDA and DOTr, here’s what to expect on the roads:
- Peak Departure Window: October 30 (Thursday) and October 31 (Friday) from 4:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Expect gridlocks at Balintawak, Mindanao Ave., and Calamba exits.
- Moderate Flow: November 1 (Saturday) early morning to midday — ideal for late travelers.
- Peak Return Window: November 3 (Monday) from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, especially along NLEX northbound and SLEX southbound sections heading back to Manila.
Pro tip: If possible, leave before sunrise or after 9:00 PM to avoid the heaviest traffic. Alternate routes such as MacArthur Highway (for NLEX) or Daang Hari–MCX–CALAX (for SLEX) may offer relief during peak congestion hours.
Roadside readiness: Your Undas travel checklist
To make it through the 72-hour rush safely, motorists should perform a complete pre-trip inspection and pack essential gear. Here’s what your Undas Travel Survival Kit should include:
✅ Vehicle Check:
- Tire pressure and tread
- Brake and fluid levels
- Headlights, signal lights, and wipers
- Full tank of fuel (top up before hitting expressways)
✅ Emergency Kit Essentials:
- First aid kit
- Jumper cables and tire repair tools
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Drinking water and non-perishable snacks
- Power bank and car charger
✅ Documents and Payments:
- Valid driver’s license and vehicle registration
- RFID card with sufficient load
- Cash for tolls or rural gas stations (some may still be offline)
Fuel up smartly: If heading north, stop at NLEX Shell Balagtas or Petron Lakeshore before Pampanga. For those going south, SLEX Shell Mamplasan and Petron San Pedro are ideal refueling spots before Laguna traffic thickens.
Beyond the highways: Airports and seaports on heightened alert
With the Undas rush extending to air and sea travel, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) have also raised their alert levels.
The CAAP has ordered 24-hour monitoring of air traffic towers and advised passengers to arrive at least three hours early for domestic flights. Airport authorities are coordinating with airlines to manage surge volumes and minimize flight delays.
Meanwhile, the PCG has deployed additional personnel across major ports in Batangas, Cebu, and Manila North Harbor, conducting strict vessel inspections and ensuring compliance with passenger capacity limits. Sea travelers are also reminded to check weather bulletins and secure tickets in advance, as most routes are expected to be fully booked by midweek.
Safety, patience, and preparation
The Undas season is as much a test of logistics as it is of Filipino devotion. For tollway operators, law enforcement, and travelers alike, the challenge lies in balancing tradition with safety.
Authorities are urging the public to plan ahead, travel early, and stay alert. Drivers are reminded to rest every two hours and avoid distracted driving, especially at night or during long provincial stretches.
As millions make the pilgrimage back home to light candles and offer prayers, the nation’s road network will once again play a vital role in connecting lives and memories. And with the right preparation—both by government and by motorists—this year’s Undas exodus can be remembered not for gridlock or breakdowns, but for safe journeys and heartfelt homecomings.
Before you hit the road, follow the official social media pages of NLEX Corporation, SLEX, and MMDA for live traffic updates. Keep emergency hotlines handy:
🚓 MMDA Metrobase: 136
🚑 Tollway Patrol Hotline: NLEX (1-35000), SLEX (02-5318-8655)
🚨 Emergency 911
Travel safe, drive smart, and may your Undas journey bring peace, not stress.
