The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has unveiled extensive traffic management plans to address the anticipated congestion during the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) “National Peace Rally” scheduled on January 13 at the Quirino Grandstand. The rally, expected to draw over one million attendees from across the country, will prompt extensive road closures and rerouting schemes.
Why a Rally for Peace?
The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) “National Peace Rally” is a large-scale gathering aimed at promoting unity and solidarity among its members and the broader community. This year’s event also serves as a show of support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s opposition to the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, emphasizing peace and cooperation amid political challenges. The rally underscores the INC’s ongoing commitment to advocating for stability and national harmony, drawing members from various provinces to participate in this meaningful occasion.
Timing
The “National Peace Rally” takes place at a key moment, just months ahead of the 2025 national elections in the Philippines. Political observers highlight that events like this often reflect the Iglesia ni Cristo’s (INC) priorities and influence, given its history of bloc voting and political engagement. With the elections fast approaching, this rally not only emphasizes INC’s support for key political figures, such as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, but also positions the group as a major force capable of shaping pre-election narratives and potentially swaying voter sentiment during this important year.
Road Closures and Rerouting Plans
Starting at 4 a.m. on January 13, several key roads in Manila and Pasay will be closed to accommodate the influx of attendees. The affected roads include:
- Katigbak Drive
- South Drive
- Roxas Boulevard (from UN Avenue to P. Burgos)
- TM Kalaw
- Bonifacio Drive (from P. Burgos to Anda Circle)
- P. Burgos (from Roxas Boulevard to Taft Avenue)
- Maria Orosa Street
To address disruptions, the MMDA has issued rerouting guidelines:
Northbound Traffic from Roxas Boulevard:
- Turn right to Quirino Avenue or UN Avenue.
- Turn left to Taft Avenue to reach destinations.
Southbound Traffic from R-10 to Bonifacio Drive:
- Turn left to Soriano Avenue.
- Turn right to Muralla Street, then left to Magallanes Drive.
- Proceed to P. Burgos and Taft Avenue.
Truck Routes:
- From South Luzon Expressway (SLEX): Use Osmeña Highway, turn right to Quirino Avenue, proceed to Nagtahan Street, and follow Lacson Avenue to Yuseco Street, then Capulong Street.
- From Parañaque: Turn right to Quirino Avenue, continue through Nagtahan and Lacson Avenue.
Additional Measures and Deployment
MMDA Chairperson Don Artes announced a “no day off, no absent” policy for 1,300 personnel deployed during the event. Emergency lanes will also be designated along Katigbak and South Drive for ambulances and other vehicles. Parking violations in designated areas will result in citation tickets or towing.
Participants will be allowed to park in one lane of specific streets, but illegal parking rules will be strictly enforced to maintain order.
Simultaneous Challenges: Subway Construction
Further complicating the traffic situation, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) will close a major stretch of Mindanao Avenue to Tandang Sora starting at midnight on January 12 for the Metro Manila Subway Project’s Phase 1 construction. This closure will divert both northbound and southbound traffic and is projected to last until 2028.
Motorists are advised to plan their routes ahead of time to avoid delays. The MMDA has emphasized the importance of cooperation and patience during this period of simultaneous events and construction.
Government Suspension and Rally Background
In preparation for the rally, Malacañang has suspended government work and classes in the cities of Manila and Pasay. Private companies may decide on work suspensions at their discretion.
The rally is an expression of support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s stance against the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, a move previously supported by INC leadership.
Work and Class Suspensions Announced for INC Peace Rally
Face-to-face classes in public day care centers up to senior high school, as well as the Alternative Learning System (ALS), are suspended on Monday, January 13, 2025.
Government offices in Manila and Pasay will also suspend operations in solidarity with the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) National Peace Rally, which will take place at the Quirino Grandstand.
Public schools are expected to continue lessons through alternative delivery modes such as synchronous or asynchronous learning.
Private schools and companies have the discretion to decide whether to suspend their operations on the said date.
Meanwhile, local government offices handling health services, disaster response, law enforcement, and other essential services will remain operational.
Call for Public Cooperation
The MMDA is urging the public to stay updated on traffic advisories and cooperate with personnel on-site. “We understand that this event, coupled with ongoing infrastructure projects, will test our traffic management systems, but with collective effort, we aim to minimize the inconvenience,” Artes said.
Video: PH gov’t agencies prep for planned rallies of Iglesia ni Cristo
The Philippine government is gearing up for the upcoming rallies of Iglesia ni Cristo.
Various agencies are coordinating efforts to maintain peace and order during the events.
Authorities are deploying personnel and resources to manage the expected large crowds.
The rallies are set to take place nationwide, drawing attention from the public and media.
The government aims to facilitate a smooth and orderly conduct of the rallies.