The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is conducting continuous road-clearing operations to remove illegally parked vehicles and other obstructions along the ‘Traslacion’ route in preparation for the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila.
Various obstructions, including illegally parked vehicles and electric tricycles, have already been removed from the Traslacion route and some roads that are part of the Mabuhay Lanes.
The MMDA is collaborating with the Manila City government and the National Capital Region Police Office to clear the Black Nazarene route for the annual procession expected to attract millions of devotees on January 9.
MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said clearing operations are part of the government’s preparations to ensure all routes are passable and cleared of obstructions for the safety and security of the devotees participating in the procession.
The procession route is as follows: it will start at the Quirino Grandstand, turn right onto Katigbak Drive (left side), right onto Padre Burgos Street through Finance Road, continue straight to Ayala Bridge, turn left onto Palanca Street, right onto Quezon Boulevard, right onto Arlegui Street, right onto Fraternal Street, right onto Vergara Street, left onto Duque de Alba Street, left onto Castillejos Street, left onto Farnecio Street, right onto Arlegui Street, left onto Nepomuceno Street, left onto Concepcion Aguila Street, right onto Carcer Street, right onto Hidalgo through Plaza del Carmen, left onto Bilibid Viejo through Gonzalo Puyat, left onto J.P. de Guzman Street, right onto Hidalgo Street, left onto Quezon Boulevard, right onto Palanca Street through under Quezon Bridge, and finally right onto Villalobos through Plaza Miranda, leading to Quiapo Church.
The MMDA will deploy teams to assist with traffic management, ensure public safety, maintain peace and order, and respond to emergencies.
The agency’s Traffic Discipline Office is responsible for traffic management along the designated routes and alternate routes.
Meanwhile, the Traffic Engineering Center will install fences and plastic barriers at the Luneta Parade Ground and along the procession route, while managing traffic at signalized intersections.
Ambulances, road emergency vehicles, traffic mobile units, and essential equipment will also be stationed in critical areas.
The MMDA will provide traffic and emergency assistance before, during, and after the Feast of the Black Nazarene activities.
Motorists and the commuting public are also advised to be aware of roads that will be temporarily closed for the procession.
In addition, the NCRPO will increase police visibility in key areas and conduct aggressive and relentless anti-crime operations.
