MANILA, Philippines โ The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) assured motorists and commuters that major roads across Metro Manila will remain open during the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, with special traffic measures in place to minimize disruptions.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the MMDA has prepared a comprehensive traffic management plan that includes security exclusion zones, alternative routes and designated truck routes near summit venues.
A total of 2,637 personnel will be deployed to manage traffic, assist motorists and maintain road safety throughout the high-level gathering.
The MMDA will also suspend the number coding scheme from November 16 to 18, 2026, allowing motorists greater flexibility during the summit.
Castro said the traffic measures are intended to maintain the flow of vehicles while ensuring the safety and security of foreign delegates and the public.
“Naglatag na rin ng traffic management plan ang ahensya para panatilihing mabilis ang daloy ng trapiko habang ginaganap ang ASEAN,” Castro said.
Meanwhile, shopping malls across Metro Manila will adjust their operating hours to 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. from November 16 to December 25, except on weekends and holidays.
Deliveries of non-perishable goods will also be restricted to the hours between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. to help ease daytime traffic congestion.
MMDA Traffic Discipline Office for Enforcement Director Victor Nuรฑez said security exclusion zones will be established around the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) and Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex.
Only authorized personnel and vehicles displaying official ASEAN stickers will be permitted to enter these restricted areas.
Nuรฑez added that MMDA traffic enforcers will coordinate with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Highway Patrol Group (HPG) and local government traffic personnel to manage delegate convoys and implement temporary stop-and-go traffic schemes.
The measures are intended to facilitate the movement of foreign leaders and delegates while minimizing inconvenience to motorists and commuters.
The MMDA advised the public to follow traffic advisories and use designated alternative routes when necessary.
