Roxas Blvd closed Aug 8 for ASEAN anniv celebration

MMDA alternate route ASEAN. (PNA photo)

MANILA, Aug 2 — Roxas Boulevard will be closed on August 8, 2017 for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

In its traffic advisory Wednesday, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) advises motorists that Roxas Boulevard to southbound traffic from P. Burgos to Buendia will be closed from 2p.m. to 9p.m.

Motorists should take the following alternate routes: Roxas Boulevard, P. Burgos, Finance Road, Taft Avenue, Buendia, Roxas Boulevard/Macapagal/Diokno to destination.

Only ASEAN delegates and guests may pass through the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) and Sofitel from August 2 to 8, 2017.

The MMDA will likewise impose a truck ban along Roxas Boulevard from Buendia Avenue to P. Burgos due to the ASEAN Ministers Meeting on August 8.

Affected trucks may turn right to EDSA and turn left to South Superhighway to Port Area.

The grand parade and lighting of the ASEAN lantern on August 8 will culminate the week-long foreign ministers’ meeting that starts on August 2.

The grand parade will start at 3 p.m. with a blowing of the horn in Manila Bay and other select ports.

The Asean lantern will be lighted at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) complex where cultural performances and fireworks display will be held.

The grand parade from Luneta Park to the CCP complex will be open to public.

The Asean foreign ministers and other delegates will attend a grand celebration of the Asean’s 50th anniversary at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) morning of August 8.

President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to deliver the keynote message at the PICC event, which will be graced with video messages of the Asean leaders, tribute to the Asean founding fathers, and a recognition of the Asean special awardees.