by Aerol John Pateña/Philippine News Agency
MANILA — The Marcos Bridge in Marikina City will be closed to motorists for eight months due to rehabilitation works, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced on Tuesday.
MMDA General Manager Jose Arturo “Jojo” Garcia Jr. said the eastbound portion of the bridge will be closed for four months starting 11 p.m. of May 4.
“The bridge’s rehabilitation is long overdue as private contractors have been requesting for the schedule of the repair since last year,” Garcia said in a press briefing.
The private contractors of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will work on the westbound part of the bridge after four months.
“The closure of the bridge will affect around 3,000 motorists per hour,” Garcia said.
The MMDA also adjusted the truck ban in the area hours from 7 a.m.-10 a.m. to 6 a.m.-10 a.m.
Garcia said signage will likewise be installed to guide motorists regarding alternate routes that will be used for the duration of the closure.
The following are the alternate routes that may be used by motorists:
From Cubao to Antipolo, motorists are advised to take Aurora Boulevard then A. Boni Flyover, straight ahead Sumulong Highway to Antipolo; take Aurora Boulevard then right turn to Katipunan Avenue, left turn to Boni Serrano and take FVR Road straight to Macapagal Bridge then Marcos Highway to Antipolo; or right turn to 15th Avenue, then left turn to Boni Serrano, take FVR Road straight to Macapagal Bridge then Marcos Highway to Antipolo.
On the other hand, trucks from Cubao to Antipolo will have to take Aurora Boulevard then right turn to Katipunan Avenue and left turn to Boni Serrano then U-turn to C-5 Road, straight to FVR Road take Macapagal Bridge then Sumulong Highway to Antipolo.
From Antipolo to Cubao, motorists can use Sumulong Highway then A. Bonifacio Avenue straight ahead going Aurora Boulevard; Marcos Highway and right turn to Fernando Avenue, then take A. Bonifacio Avenue straight ahead Aurora Boulevard; Marcos Highway then FVR Road, right turn to Katipunan Avenue, left turn to Aurora Boulevard, straight ahead to Cubao; or take Marcos Highway then FVR Road straight ahead take Boni Serrano Avenue, then right turn to 20th Avenue, left turn to Aurora Boulevard to Cubao
The trucks from the same route can use Marcos Highway then FVR Road straight ahead, right turn to Katipunan Avenue, left turn to Aurora Boulevard and straight ahead to Cubao.
