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The U.S. Embassy in Manila warned on November 10 that the 49th ASEAN Summit will bring heavy security, road closures and traffic disruption across Metro Manila from November 16 to 18.
The main venue is the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. Partial closures around the center and the nearby CCP Complex began on October 24. Full closures run from November 9 to 20. The government has declared November 16 to 18 special non-working days in the National Capital Region.
Congestion is expected on Roxas, Diokno and Macapagal Boulevards, Buendia Avenue and the World Trade Center area. Some bus lanes will become restricted "ASEAN lanes" for official convoys. Fun runs, motorcades, processions and other outdoor gatherings near summit venues are suspended from October 24 to November 20.
Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific have cancelled or rescheduled many domestic and international flights to and from Manila between November 14 and 18. The embassy expects longer security screening at NAIA, the capital's main airport. Khaleej Times reported in late October that the Civil Aeronautics Board asked airlines to review schedules, with more than 100 flights possibly cancelled, delayed or diverted.
Protests are also planned. The embassy says some groups have announced demonstrations during the summit but gives no specifics. Khaleej Times names Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, a left-wing coalition, among the groups expected to protest during a visit by U.S. President Donald Trump. Gulf News reported that the White House says Trump will attend on November 16 before traveling on to China for APEC. Khaleej Times says he will spend less than 24 hours in Manila.
The U.S. Embassy remains open for routine and emergency services, and it says consular hours and appointments from November 16 to 18 may change. The Philippines currently carries a Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, travel advisory.
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