Heads up, motorists: MMDA releases rerouting scheme for Marcos Jr.'s second SONA
The MMDA has released the alternate routes for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s second State of the Nation Address (SONA), which will be held at Batasang Pambansa on Monday, July 24.
In its traffic management plan released on Wednesday, July 19, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said it will implement a zipper lane or counterflow on the southbound portions of Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City "to give way to vehicles of government officials and guests going to the complex as needed."
Motorists traveling in the area can take alternate routes to avoid the expected heavy traffic on the said day.
For northbound and southbound motorists
Those heading north and traveling from Quezon Memorial Circle to Fairview are advised to take North Avenue from Elliptical Road, turn right at Mindanao Avenue, then take another right turn to Sauyo Road or Quirino Highway to reach the point of destination.
Southbound motorists from Commonwealth Avenue should go on Sauyo Road or Quirino Highway, turn left at Mindanao Avenue, then turn left at North Avenue to get to the point of destination.
For trucks and light vehicles
All trucks from C-5 along Katipunan Avenue may take the Luzon Flyover and then turn left at Congressional Avenue going to the point of destination.
Those in light vehicles from C-5 Road, meanwhile, are advised to turn left at Magiting St. and then turn right at Maginhawa St. After that, take a left turn at Mayaman St. to Kalayaan Avenue to reach the point of destination.
Strictly implementing a "no day off, no absent policy," a total of 1,354 personnel will be deployed to “ensure a peaceful and orderly SONA."
"Preparations are in full swing for us to ensure that traffic will be orderly along Commonwealth Avenue, IBP Road, and all other thoroughfares surrounding the House of Representatives,” MMDA acting chairman Atty. Don Artes said.
“SONA-related activities as well as transport strike(s) will be monitored at the newly inaugurated MMDA Communications and Command Center," he added.
They will also “intensify” clearing operations to get rid of any road obstructions in the said alternate routes in coordination with the Quezon City government.
Ambulances, tow trucks, mobile patrol units, motorcycle units, and flood mitigation equipment will also be dispatched at designated routes and staging areas.
“Traffic advisory signage will be installed along alternate routes to serve as a guide for motorists. Audiovisual trucks along strategic locations showing the policy programs of the MMDA and the live speech of the President will also be deployed,” the statement read.