NLEX to activate counterflow as Undas holiday traffic surges

MANILA — North Luzon Expressway Corp. is bracing for a surge in northbound traffic as motorists head to provincial cemeteries for Undas observances, with officials readying counterflow operations to ease congestion on the major highway.

The expressway operator expects significant traffic buildup beginning Friday afternoon, Oct. 30, and continuing through Saturday, Oct. 31, as families travel to visit graves during the traditional All Saints' Day holiday period. In response, NLEX management has positioned traffic personnel to implement counterflow arrangements on affected sections when necessary to optimize road capacity.

Counterflow operations temporarily reverse lanes to accommodate directional traffic imbalances, a common traffic management strategy employed during peak holiday periods on major Philippine expressways. By shifting available lanes to the direction of heaviest traffic, authorities aim to prevent bottlenecks and maintain smoother vehicle flow throughout the weekend.

Motorists are advised to expect delays and to plan their travel accordingly. NLEX urges drivers to exercise patience and follow the guidance of traffic personnel managing the counterflow operations to ensure safe passage during the busy holiday period.