Quezon City is gearing up for the Chinese New Year celebrations in Banawe, its designated Chinatown, with several roads set to be closed temporarily on Wednesday. The city government has taken to social media to inform the public that these closures will be in place from midnight until 9 p.m., to facilitate the welcoming of the Year of the Wooden Snake.
The affected roads include the intersection of Del Monte Avenue and Banawe Street, Linaw Street and Matutum Street, Banawe Street and Scout Alcaraz Street, Biak na Bato Street and Linaw Street, Sta. Catalina Street and Palanan Street, as well as Sta. Catalina Street and Ubay Street. Drivers are encouraged to use alternative routes to navigate around the closures. Suggested detours include turning right from Banawe Street onto Scout Alcaraz Street, then left onto Biak na Bato Street, and continuing to Del Monte Avenue. Another option is to turn left from Banawe Street onto Scout Alcaraz Street, then right onto Matutum Street, and proceed to Del Monte Avenue. For those coming from G. Roxas Street, a route via Quezon Avenue and Ma. Clara Street to Del Monte Avenue, then left onto Matutum Street, left onto Scout Alcaraz Street, and right onto Banawe Street is advised.
The festivities, organized by the Tourism and Promotions Department, promise a vibrant celebration with a grand bazaar, musical performances, cultural shows, and a ‘food crawl’ highlighting specialties from local Chinese restaurants. Visitors can also explore a bazaar along Del Monte Avenue to Scout Alcaraz Street, where 50 vendors will offer authentic Chinese cuisine, artisanal products, and lucky charms.
To ensure smooth operations and safety, the Traffic and Transport Management Department and the Department of Public Order and Safety will have personnel on hand to assist both residents and visitors throughout the event.