Ramon Magsaysay Blvd closed to traffic for 'Bourne' shoot

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) advised motorists yesterday to steer clear of the Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard in Sta. Mesa, Manila today and tomorrow as both lanes of the boulevard will be closed to traffic to accommodate the filming of scenes for the spy thriller “Bourne Legacy.”

MMDA spokeswoman Ma. Lualhati Dorotan said the section of the boulevard from Nagtahan to Araneta Avenue will be completely closed to traffic as the film’s cast and crew “will be shooting some dangerous stunts.”

The MMDA is advising eastbound motorists (those coming from Legarda, Nagtahan and J.P. Laurel streets) to go straight to A.H. Lacson street (formerly Governor Forbes) and take a right to G. Tuazon street, or take A.H. Lacson street then turn right at España to their destinations.

Westbound motorists (those coming from San Juan, Cubao and Mandaluyong) are advised to take Old Sta. Mesa, left at Valenzuela street, right at the Paco-Sta. Mesa Road, right to President Quirino Avenue, to their destinations.

Producers of the “Bourne Legacy” earlier said they chose Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard as the location for the film’s lengthy car chase scenes because of its width. The boulevard serves as the main artery connecting Mandaluyong City, Pasig City and Quezon City with Manila and the city’s University Belt district.

Meanwhile, heavy traffic is expected tomorrow as motorists are forced to take the narrow G. Tuazon street, which is also being repaired, as an alternate route to Quezon City.