Manila Implements Major Road Closures Ahead of Marcos' 5th SONA

MANILA, Philippines — Major roads in Manila will be closed on Sunday, July 26, ahead of the fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Manila city government announced. In an advisory released Saturday, the city government listed roads and bridges that will be sealed off in anticipation of traffic jams and public demonstrations during the president’s annual address. China Roces Bridge Mendiola, Ayala Bridge, Liwasang Bonifacio, MacArthur and Quezon Bridges are among the thoroughfares that will be affected by the closures. The city government also advised motorists to take the provided alternative routes. All vehicles along China Roces Avenue are advised to reroute. All vehicles along Ayala Bridge are advised to reroute. Meanwhile, all vehicles along Liwasang Bonifacio coming from the northbound lane of P. Burgos Avenue intending to use Magallanes Drive are advised to drive straight to either Jones, MacArthur, or Quezon bridges to their point of destination. On the other hand, all vehicles along MacArthur and Quezon Bridges are urged to reroute in the provided routes. The city government had earlier issued a road closure advisory in Liwasang Bonifacio, China Roces Bridge Mendiola, Ayala Bridge, and MacArthur and Quezon bridges for the scheduled United People Initiative’s rally on Sunday. This measure underscores the typical security preparations for the SONA, an event often accompanied by protests reflecting public sentiment on governance, economic conditions, and social issues. The Philippine government consistently tightens security and manages public spaces during such high-profile events.