QC warns TV5 on traffic jams caused by 'Willing Willie'

MANILA, Philippines -  The Quezon City government has warned TV5 that it could revoke the business permit of the show “Willing Willie” if its followers continue to cause traffic jams along Quirino Highway.

The city government has banned long lines along the highway and police officers have been ordered to clear the sidewalks, which were reportedly being used as an extension studio of the network’s “Willing Willie” program.

Tadeo Palma, secretary to the city mayor, said he had received complaints from motorists affected by the daily convergence in the area of regular watchers of the show, hosted nightly by Willie Revillame from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

According to the city government, around 5,000 fans of the program start converging at the area as early as 4 a.m.

Palma has already coordinated with the management of TV5 to ensure the orderly flow of traffic along Quirino Highway.

Task Force Quirino Highway was also formed to oversee the traffic management situation in the area. It will have as members, representatives from the city government’s Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS), Quezon City Police District, Department of Public Works and Highways, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, TV5, and concerned barangays.

The formation of the task force was finalized during a meeting called by District 2 Rep. Winston Castelo.

The DPOS has also been directed to provide “no loading/unloading” signs in the area and railing along Quirino Highway to prevent people from occupying the main road.