If you’re planning to drive around Metro Manila this Holy Week, take note: April 17 (Maundy Thursday) and April 18 (Good Friday) have been declared regular holidays, and most major malls will either close completely or reduce operating hours.
While that may sound like a break from the usual traffic build-up, changes in mall schedules often redirect foot and vehicle traffic, especially near major commercial centers. Knowing which areas to avoid—or reroute around—can help you drive more efficiently and safely during the long weekend.
Why Mall Schedules Matter to Motorists
Mall areas are typically high-traffic zones. When malls close, these zones may experience either:
- Reduced congestion (due to fewer vehicles), or
- Unexpected rerouting and roadblocks (due to service deliveries or temporary closures of mall-side roads).
Additionally, drivers heading out for long trips, groceries, or errands may find limited parking or closed access points. This is especially important near supermarket entrances that operate on shortened schedules.
Traffic-Affected Zones and Mall Hours
Here’s a quick rundown of key mall schedules by location, so you can adjust your travel routes accordingly:
Quezon City
Robinsons Townville Regalado
- April 17: Mall open (10 AM – 6 PM)
- April 18: Mall closed
- Supermarket: Open daily (7 AM – 10 PM)
Traffic Tip: Expect light traffic near this area on Good Friday, but plan early if you’re heading to the supermarket.
Mandaluyong City
SM Megamall & The Podium
- April 17–18: Closed
- Supermarket B (SM Megamall):
- April 17: 8 AM – 6 PM
- April 18: 8 AM – 5 PM
SM Center Shaw
- April 17–18: Closed
Traffic Tip: Ortigas and EDSA may see smoother flow, but short-term congestion can occur near supermarket access roads.
Pasig City
SM Center Pasig
- April 17–18: Closed
Makati City
One Ayala, Greenbelt, Powerplant Mall
- April 17–18: Closed
- April 19–20: Regular hours resume
Traffic Tip: Ayala Avenue may see fewer slowdowns. Use this time for smoother CBD transit—just avoid re-entry around mall reopening hours.
Marikina City
Riverbanks Center
- April 17–18: Closed
Smart Driving Tips for Holy Week
- Avoid last-minute errands on April 17–18.
- Check Waze or Google Maps for real-time traffic data, especially near malls that reopen April 19.
- Fuel up early, as some gas stations near closed malls may operate on skeleton crews.
- Expect heavier provincial-bound traffic starting April 16, especially along expressways like NLEX and SLEX.
Looking Ahead
Holy Week offers a quieter Metro Manila for motorists—if you plan ahead. Use the closed mall periods as opportunities for smoother drives, especially across commercial zones. Just keep in mind the surge of return traffic on Easter Sunday as families head back to the city.
Stay updated by following mall advisories and MMDA announcements for any road closures or rerouting notices.