Traffic gridlock is expected as over a million members of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) are set to gather for the “National Rally for Peace” at the Quirino Grandstand on Monday, January 13.
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Romando Artes confirmed that approximately 15,000 buses and private vehicles will converge on Metro Manila for the event, prompting authorities to prepare extensive road closures and rerouting plans.
Starting at 4 a.m. on Monday, several major roads will be closed, including Katigbak and South Drive, Roxas Boulevard from UN Avenue to P. Burgos, TM Kalaw, Bonifacio Drive from P. Burgos to Anda Circle, P. Burgos from Roxas Boulevard to Taft Avenue, and Maria Orosa Street.
Alternative routes for public utility vehicles (PUVs) and private cars have been provided. Northbound vehicles from Roxas Boulevard are advised to turn right at Quirino Avenue or UN Avenue and then left to Taft Avenue. For southbound traffic, motorists are advised to head to Anda Circle via R-10, left at Soriano Avenue, right at Muralla Street, left at Magallanes Drive, and right at P. Burgos Avenue.
To ensure order, 1,300 MMDA personnel will be deployed, enforcing a strict “No day off, no leave” policy.
The massive rally highlights INC’s nationwide push for peace, yet it raises concerns about its impact on Metro Manila’s already congested traffic. Commuters and motorists are urged to plan their travel accordingly.
