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Philstar.com
October 29, 2026 | 2:48pm
Flags of member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as seen in an undated image
NuwatPhoto via Canva Pro
MANILA, Philippines — Motorists, commuters and air travelers should prepare for road closures, traffic restrictions and possible flight disruptions as Metro Manila hosts the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit in November.
The summit will run from Nov. 16 to 18 at several venues across the capital, primarily the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.
Security preparations will affect road access around the venue and may also lead to changes in airport operations.
Special non-working days: Nov. 16 to 18
Malacañang has declared Nov. 16 to 18 special non-working days throughout Metro Manila. This is when the ASEAN Leaders Summit will take place. U.S. President Donald Trump is among the leaders expected to attend the meetings.
Under Proclamation 1447, the work suspension is intended to ease traffic congestion and allow authorities to secure areas used by summit participants.
Road closures around PICC
Temporary road closures will be imposed around the PICC and surrounding areas in Pasay.
According to the Pasay Traffic and Parking Management Office:
- Partial road closures: Oct. 24 to Nov. 9
- Total road closures: Nov. 9 to 20
Affected roads and areas include:
- Pedro Bukaneg Street
- Vicente Sotto Street
- Buendia Avenue
- J.W. Diokno Boulevard
- Atang Dela Rama Street
- Magdalena Jalandoni Street
- Areas surrounding the PICC
Motorists are also advised to avoid Macapagal Boulevard, the World Trade Center area, Diokno Boulevard and portions of Roxas Boulevard because of expected heavy traffic.
Authorities advised travelers to allow extra time, use alternative routes and follow instructions from traffic and security personnel.
Employees working within restricted areas may be allowed to enter upon presentation of a valid company ID, subject to security rules.
Bus lanes to become ASEAN lanes
Designated bus lanes will also temporarily serve as ASEAN lanes to prioritize vehicles carrying officials and summit delegations.
Motorists and commuters should expect traffic adjustments along routes used by official convoys.
Flight changes possible
Air passengers should also prepare for possible flight cancellations or schedule changes during the summit period.
The Civil Aeronautics Board has directed airlines to coordinate with airport authorities and inform affected passengers as early as possible of any changes.
Passengers are advised to:
- Monitor their flight status before heading to the airport
- Check official airline and government advisories
- Coordinate directly with airlines for rebooking or other options
- Allow additional travel time because of road closures and traffic
- Expect possible delays in check-in and security screening
Budget carrier Cebu Pacific has earlier announced cancelations on selected domestic and international routes from Nov. 14 to 18.
Affected international routes include flights between Manila and:
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Brunei
- Dubai, UAE
- Hong Kong, SAR
- Jakarta, Indonesia
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Sapporo, Japan
Cebu Pacific said affected passengers had been notified and reaccommodated on the next available flights.
The 49th ASEAN Summit is expected to bring together leaders and delegations from ASEAN member states and partner countries.
