ASEAN Summit traffic guide: Metro Manila road restrictions, alternate routes and coding suspension

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 12, 2026

Photo courtesy: Pasig Pnp

MANILA, Philippines – Motorists and commuters across Metro Manila should prepare for traffic delays, restricted access near the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) and temporary road stoppages as the Philippines welcomes foreign leaders for the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) clarified that major roads will remain open, with restrictions concentrated around designated security zones in Pasay City.

Traffic may still be temporarily stopped whenever convoys carrying heads of state and foreign delegations pass through major thoroughfares.

Authorities are also advising residents to allow additional travel time, particularly around the PICC, Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex and nearby roads.

Four streets restricted near the PICC

Security exclusion zones have been established around the main summit venue, with access restrictions in effect from November 9 to 18.

The affected streets are:

• Atang Dela Rama Street
• Vicente Sotto Street
• Pedro Bukaneg Street
• Magdalena Jalandoni Street

Only accredited personnel and vehicles with authorized ASEAN identification stickers may enter these restricted areas.

The MMDA emphasized that the restrictions do not amount to a widespread shutdown of Metro Manila roads. Other major routes will remain accessible, although motorists may encounter temporary delays.

Alternate routes for motorists

Drivers traveling near the PICC and CCP Complex are encouraged to use designated alternate routes to avoid restricted areas and expected congestion.

For southbound motorists coming from Roxas Boulevard toward Diokno Boulevard and Macapagal Boulevard, the MMDA recommends turning right onto EDSA, proceeding toward Diokno Boulevard and continuing to Macapagal Boulevard.

Northbound motorists traveling toward Roxas Boulevard may use Seaside Boulevard, Macapagal Boulevard and EDSA before returning to Roxas Boulevard.

Drivers should also anticipate heavier traffic around Macapagal Boulevard, Diokno Boulevard and the World Trade Center area, particularly during convoy movements and security preparations.

Temporary stops for official convoys

The MMDA will enforce a stop-and-go traffic system along routes used by visiting leaders and their delegations.

Traffic enforcers will briefly halt vehicles when official convoys pass and reopen the roads afterward.

Unlike full road closures, these restrictions are temporary and will depend on the movement of summit participants.

The agency is deploying 2,637 personnel from November 13 to 19 to manage traffic, assist motorists and respond to emergencies.

The deployment includes traffic personnel, street sweepers, emergency response teams and accredited towing services stationed along designated routes.

Number coding suspended from November 16 to 18

Motorists will not have to follow Metro Manila’s number coding scheme from Monday, November 16, through Wednesday, November 18.

The MMDA announced the three-day suspension in line with Malacañang’s declaration of special non-working days throughout the National Capital Region.

The holiday declaration aims to reduce traffic congestion and support security arrangements for the international gathering.

The suspension applies to the MMDA’s number coding scheme, but it does not exempt motorists from security restrictions or temporary traffic controls around the summit venues.

Truck restrictions and airport travel

Truck operators will also face traffic adjustments from November 15 to 18, with designated alternative routes intended to keep container trucks away from affected sections of Roxas Boulevard.

Vehicles traveling between Manila’s port areas and major highways must follow the routes designated by traffic authorities.

Air passengers should also prepare for possible changes to flight schedules during the summit period, as security and airport operations adjust to the arrival and departure of foreign delegations.

Travelers are encouraged to confirm flight schedules directly with their airlines before leaving for the airport.

Public advised to monitor traffic updates

The traffic adjustments are part of preparations for the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, which will bring Southeast Asian leaders and international partners to Manila.

The main leaders’ meetings will take place at the PICC in Pasay City, with related diplomatic activities scheduled throughout the summit period.

The MMDA continues coordinating with the Philippine National Police, transportation authorities and local governments to manage traffic and security.

Motorists and commuters are advised to monitor official MMDA announcements, follow traffic enforcers’ instructions and consider alternative travel arrangements when passing through areas near the summit venues.