The local governments of Manila and Quezon Cities announced on Thursday, Jan. 19, several road closures in preparation for the Chinese New Year celebration on Sunday, Jan. 20.
In line with the Chinese New Year Countdown Pyromusical at Jones Bridge, the southbound lane of Jones Bridge will be closed starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, while the northbound lane will be closed at 10 p.m. on same day, according to Manila Public Information Office (PIO).
The northbound and southbound lanes of Intramuros-Binondo Bridge will also be closed starting at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday for the countdown preparation.
Manila PIO advised the public to re-route to avoid traffic congestion.
There were no alternate routes provided, but the nearest detour will be the McArthur Bridge.
Meanwhile, the QC government said a portion of Banawe Street, from Cuenco St. to Quezon Ave., will also be closed starting 9 p.m. on Saturday to 9 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 22.
Vehicles from Quezon Ave. are advised to turn right to Biak na Bato St., left to Dapitan St., another left to Cordillera St., and then back to Quezon Ave.
Another alternative route will be available at Maria Clara St., left to D. Tuazon St., and back to Quezon Ave.
Portions of Malingap St. will also be closed for the Drag Den Street Viewing Party of Maginhawa Food Community Inc. from 9 a.m. on Saturday to 12 a.m. on Sunday.
Traffic re-routing will be implemented in the area for passing motorists.
For motorists from Maginhawa St. going Kalayaan Ave., turn left on Madasalin St., and right to Mapagkaggawaga St., left at Malingap St. to Kalayaan Ave.
They can also turn right to Mahabagin St., left on Charitable St., and right at Malingap St. to Kalayaan Ave.
Those who will be driving from Kalayaan Ave. to Maginhawa St., turn right at Malingap St., another right to Charitable St., and left at Madasalin St. to Maginhawa St.
"Pinapayuhan ang mga motorista na dumaan sa mga alternatibong ruta. Asahan din ang pagbagal ng daloy ng trapiko sa lugar at pagdagsa ng mga lalahok sa pagdiriwang (Motorists are advised to take alternate routes. Also expect a slowdown in traffic flow in the areas and stream of festival goers)," the QC government added.