MMDA to close portions of Roxas Boulevard for INC event

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced that stretches along Roxas Boulevard would be closed for vehicles on May 6 for Iglesia ni Cristo’s (INC) Worldwide Walk to Fight Poverty.

MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia said that the closure of both northbound and southbound lanes of Buendia to Padre Burgos on Roxas Boulevard would be from May 5 (12mn) to May 6 (10 p.m.).  Other closed areas include portions of Buendia, Taft Avenue, and Road 10; and roads in the vicinity of Quirino Grandstand, Luneta Park and Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Garcia said that more than a million people are expected to join the charity walk.

“We need the cooperation of the public, stay away from Roxas Boulevard and some areas in Manila and Pasay if you do not have any business or anything important to do there,” Garcia said in a statement.

MMDA would deploy 200 of its personnel to assist motorists and participants, and help maintain peace and order during the event.

“We have also coordinated with the local government units of Manila and Pasay to help manage traffic and ensure the safety of the participants,” Garcia added.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary Tim Orbos pleaded to the participants to utilize the public train systems in travelling to the venue.

“We urge them not to bring their vehicles and just park their vehicles away from the venue,” Orbos said.

INC, an international Christian sect that originated in the Philippines, has over 2 million members according to its officers.  INC General Auditor Glicerio Santos Jr. said in a promotional video from INC News and Updates that the event focuses on extending help for impoverished people in Africa.