The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced on Tuesday the updated route for the homecoming parade celebrating the 2024 Paris Olympians.
“The parade is definitely happening tomorrow. It will start at V. Sotto and conclude at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex,” MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said during a press conference.
The parade will follow this route:
- From V. Sotto (Aliw Theater), turn left to Roxas Blvd.
- Turn right to P. Burgos Avenue
- Continue straight to Finance Road
- Turn right to Taft Avenue
- Turn right to Pres. Quirino Avenue
- Turn left to Adriatico Street
- Turn left to Rizal Memorial Sports Complex
Artes advised motorists to avoid these roads and use alternate routes during the parade:
Northbound:
- Skyway
- Buendia Ave.
- Taft Ave.
- F.B Harrison St.
- Mabini St.
- Pres. Quirino
- Lacson Ave.
Southbound:
- Roxas Blvd.
- UN Ave.
- San Marcelino
- Quirino Ave. to SLEX
The parade, led by two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo, will begin at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, starting from the Aliw Theater in Pasay City and ending at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
Artes shared that all 22 athletes will ride together on a single float, emphasizing that no other vehicles will be allowed to join the parade.
“All 22 of our athletes will be on one float. Only the athletes are permitted on the float,” Artes stated.
He compared the float to those used in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), adding, “The float will be similar to those in the MMFF. Perhaps that’s why the MMDA was tasked with organizing the parade, as we’re experienced in handling such events.”
Artes also mentioned that the float will be elevated, with the crowd restricted to the sidewalks. After the parade, a short program will take place inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
“The program will last approximately 45 minutes, as our athletes are tired from their journey,” Artes said.
“The Rizal Memorial event will be open to the public, but it will be a brief program focused on introducing the athletes,” he added.
Artes noted that no security threats have been detected related to the parade. However, 300 MMDA personnel will be deployed to assist with the parade and manage the alternate routes.
He also assured the public that significant traffic disruptions are not anticipated.
“We don’t expect the parade to cause heavy traffic. It will likely only result in a 5-minute delay at each stop, as we’ll be implementing a stop-and-go system,” Artes explained.
The Philippines won four medals in the Paris Olympics, with two golds in gymnastics from Yulo and two bronze medals from boxers Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio.