With Proclamation No. 1189 confirming a 3-day long weekend this Friday, March 20, for Eid’l Fitr, major transport hubs and expressways are preparing for a “Summer Kickoff” surge. If you’re heading out of town, here is your essential survival guide.
Long Weekend Guide March 2026 Philippines
Metro Manila Traffic & Number Coding
As of March 16, 2026, the MMDA has released the following guidelines for the long weekend:
- Number Coding: Traditionally, the Expanded Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP) is suspended on Regular Holidays. Expect no coding on Friday, March 20.
- Traffic Hotspots: Congestion is expected to peak starting Thursday afternoon (March 19) and Friday morning (March 20) at these locations:
- NLEX Balintawak and Mindanao Avenue Plazas
- SLEX Alabang Viaduct and Calamba Toll Plaza
- Cavitex and MCX exits
Terminal & Transit Advisories
Major provincial bus lines are reporting high booking volumes. If you haven’t secured a seat, here is the status:
| Transport Hub | Status / Advisory |
| PITX (Paranaque) | Expect heavy crowds for Bicol and Batangas routes. Walk-ins are discouraged; use the PITX app. |
| Victory Liner | Baguio and Zambales trips are 80% booked for Friday morning. |
| P2P Buses | Operating on “Holiday/Sunday Schedules” on March 20. Check your specific route’s FB page. |
| LRT-1 / LRT-2 / MRT-3 | Normal operating hours (5:00 AM – 10:00 PM), but with fewer trains running on the holiday itself. |
Destinations with “Low Crowd” Potential
Want to avoid the masses? Based on current booking trends for this specific weekend:
- Skip: Tagaytay and Baguio (Expect heavy traffic).
- Try: Sipalay, Negros Occidental or Samal Island (Davao). These are currently “under the radar” for this specific March window.
- City Choice: Binondo & Intramuros. With many residents heading to the provinces, Manila’s historical core is often peaceful and perfect for a food crawl.
long weekend guide March 2026 Philippines Eid’l Fitr Observance Locations
For those joining the festivities or wanting to witness the cultural significance:
- Quirino Grandstand: Congregational prayers (Namaz) usually start at 6:00 AM.
- Blue Mosque (Taguig): Expect high attendance for morning prayers and community feasts.
- Public Decorum: If visiting these areas, please dress modestly and remain respectful during prayer times.
