MMDA Announces ‘Stop-and-Go’ Traffic Plan for Paris Olympians’ Parade in Manila

MANILA – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has announced the implementation of a ‘stop-and-go’ traffic scheme to facilitate the parade honoring the Philippines’ athletes from the Paris Olympics, scheduled for Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, during a press conference held at the MMDA headquarters in Pasig City, the parade will feature 300 MMDA personnel, including traffic enforcers and street sweepers, to manage the event’s logistics. The personnel will ensure both orderliness and cleanliness along the parade route and afterward. “Vehicles in the parade will travel at 6 km per hour, allowing the public ample opportunity to see and celebrate the Olympic team,” stated Artes.

The parade is set to commence at 3 p.m. from the Aliw Theater in Pasay City and will conclude at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex with a ceremony that is open to the public. The 7.70-km route will pass through major thoroughfares including Roxas Boulevard, P. Burgos Avenue, Finance Road, Taft and Quirino Avenues, and Adriatico Street.

Additionally, Artes mentioned provisions for inclement weather, noting that the float carrying the athletes would be equipped with a rain cover. The parade entourage will include MMDA motorcycle units, members of the Philippine National Police, the MMDA band, media personnel, an ambulance, and the athletes themselves, who will ride atop a parade float on a flatbed vehicle.

Emphasizing the exclusivity of the parade procession, Artes confirmed, “Strictly no other vehicles will be allowed with the parade group.” He also alerted motorists about potential traffic disruptions along the parade route, although no roads will be closed. Motorists headed northbound towards R-10 road are advised to take alternative routes including the Skyway, Buendia Avenue, Taft Avenue, FB Harrison Street, Mabini Street, President Quirino Street, and Lacson Avenue. Southbound vehicles can navigate through Roxas Boulevard, UN Avenue, San Marcelino Street, and Quirino Avenue to the South Luzon Expressway.