Metro hosts big parade for Pia

Expect heavy traffic in parts of Manila, Pasay and Makati City on Monday afternoon as the country hosts a grand parade for Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chair Emerson Carlos said during a meeting on Thursday that the homecoming parade for Wurtzbach would start at 2 p.m. at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in Pasay City.

From there, the “carosa” bearing the beauty queen will proceed to Atang Dela Rama Street, turn right on Vicente Sotto Street, left on F. Ma. Guerrero Street, right on Bukaneg Street, left on Roxas Boulevard and then right on Padre Burgos going to Taft Avenue.

It will then make a right on Quirino Avenue, left on Roxas Boulevard toward Gil Puyat Avenue. From Gil Puyat, it will turn left on Ayala Avenue then make a U-turn at the Makati Fire Station going to Rustan’s which is the last stop.

The MMDA said that only the northbound lane of Ayala Avenue would be closed starting at 3 p.m. for the grand parade. As for the other affected roads, a “stop and go” scheme would be enforced.

A total of 135 traffic enforcers will be deployed along the parade route to manage traffic flow.

The Makati City government, meanwhile, said that it would give the Miss Universe 2015 titleholder a “hero’s welcome” on Monday and Tuesday when she pays a courtesy call on Mayor Romulo “Kid” Peña at city hall.

“Makati is very proud of Ms. Wurtzbach for reclaiming the Miss Universe crown for the Philippines after 42 long years. She has inspired millions of people around the world, including the people of Makati, with her indomitable spirit and extraordinary determination to realize her dream,” he said.

Wurtzbach will arrive in the country on Saturday and remain until Jan. 31 for a series of activities, including charity events at the AFP Medical Center in Quezon City.