The city government of Manila has announced that certain roads in Binondo will be closed to vehicular traffic in preparation for the upcoming Chinese New Year festivities. The celebrations are set to begin on Friday, February 9, and will include a New Year countdown starting at 11:30 p.m.
To ensure the safety and smooth flow of the festivities, the Manila Police has provided details on the road closures. Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, the Binondo-Intramuros Bridge will be closed to vehicles. Additionally, the southbound side of Jones Bridge will be closed from 7 p.m., followed by the closure of the northbound side at 10 p.m.
Other roads that will be temporarily closed include the stretch of Quintin Paredes, from Padre Burgos Avenue to Dasmariñas Street, as well as Plaza Cervantes. These closures are necessary to accommodate the various activities and events taking place during the Chinese New Year celebrations.
For the convenience of motorists, the Manila Police Traffic Bureau has implemented a rerouting scheme. Vehicles coming from Reina Regente Street on Juan Luna Street, intending to utilize the southbound lane of Jones Bridge, will need to turn left to Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz, then turn right to Norberto Ty Street, right to Yuchengco Street, and finally, left to Ongpin Street to reach their destination.
Those coming from Padre Burgos Avenue or Taft Avenue, and wishing to utilize Jones Bridge, should proceed straight to McArthur Bridge or Quezon Bridge to reach their destination. Similarly, vehicles coming from Plaza Sta. Cruz and utilizing Dasmariñas Street should turn right to Q. Paredes Street to reach their intended destination.
For those coming from Magallanes Drive and heading to Binondo-Intramuros Bridge, the recommended route is to go straight to A. Soriano Avenue, then Anda Circle, and finally, reach their destination. Meanwhile, vehicles coming from Muelle dela Industria and heading to Binondo-Intramuros Bridge should take Madrid Street, then turn right to San Fernando Street, proceed to Plaza San Ruiz, then left to Quintin Paredes Street, right to Norberto Ty Street, right to Yuchengco Street, and finally, left to Ongpin Street to reach their destination.
In light of the Chinese New Year celebrations, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has suspended the expanded number coding scheme on February 9. This is in line with Malacañang’s proclamation declaring Friday a special non-working holiday throughout the country.
To ensure the safety and security of the Binondo area during the celebration, the city government will deploy 1,500 policemen. Their presence will help maintain order and provide assistance to both residents and visitors participating in the Chinese New Year festivities.
As the Chinese New Year approaches, it is important for motorists to be aware of these road closures and the rerouting schemes in place. By following the designated routes and cooperating with authorities, everyone can enjoy a smooth and memorable celebration of the Chinese New Year in Binondo.
Source: The Manila Times
