Roxas Boulevard closed to traffic

Motorists were advised by the Manila city government yesterday to avoid Roxas Boulevard — particularly from Pedro Gil Street to Quirino Avenue — which would be closed to traffic today and tomorrow in preparation for the grand New Year’s celebration along the Baywalk.

Alternate routes for motorists will be provided, Mayor Lito Atienza said in a statement.

Apart from the P1.5 million worth of firecrackers that will be fired from three barges on Manila Bay, television network GMA-7 would have to prepare for their Sunday shows SOP, S-Files, and Starbucks.

Vehicles would not be allowed to pass through the northbound lanes of Roxas Boulevard, from Pedro Gil Street to Quirino Avenue, starting 6 a.m. today. The southbound lane of the said portion of the major thoroughfare would be closed to traffic beginning noon tomorrow.

The road will be open at 4 a.m. on Monday.

Special Police Officer 3 Jose Undangan, of the Manila Traffic Police, said vehicles coming from Pasay City could turn right either at Ocampo Street, Quirino Avenue, or Taft Avenue. While those heading south from Port Area could turn left at Burgos Street or Taft Avenue.

"We are inviting everyone to bring their families and loved ones and join us in the festivities as we greet 2007 with a big bang at the Rajah Sulayman Park," said Atienza.

The city government has promised to "wow’ the estimated one million crowd that are expected to troop to the Baywalk on Sunday evening and watch a 10-minute fireworks display.