File photo of the MMFF’s Parade of Stars two years ago.
THANKS to the improving situation in Metro Manila and significant decrease of Covid-19 infections, the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) will hold its first-ever Fluvial Parade of Stars that will highlight the beauty of Pasig River—marking the festival’s resumption this year following the reopening of cinemas and easing of quarantine restrictions in the metropolis.
In an official announcement, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and MMFF concurrent Chairman Benjamin ‘Benhur’ Abalos Jr. disclosed that the fluvial parade that has been scheduled on December 19 will feature ferry boats serving as floats that will carry participating celebrities featured in official movie entries in this year’s film festival.
Abalos explained that the fluvial parade will take replace the traditional motorcade in order to at least control the number of people who would want to watch and enjoy the activity which highlights this year’s MMFF as it makes a comeback at several metro cinemas for the holidays.
“The fluvial parade will showcase the ferry service and at the same time encourage the public to ride the agency-operated Pasig River Ferry Service, an alternative transportation across Metro Manila,” the former Mandaluyong City mayor said.
“Through this fluvial parade, we hope to encourage the public to ride the ferry service which sails from Pinagbuhatan in Pasig to Intramuros in Manila.
This alternative transportation is traffic-free and you’ll get to appreciate the beauty of the river and the arts along the riverbanks,” he added.
Based on its planned route, the parade will start from the Guadalupe Ferry Station in Makati City and will go straight eastbound to the C-5 Bagong Ilog Bridge. From there it will take a U-turn, stop at the Pasig City side and then back straight to the Makati Circuit which will be the endpoint of the event.
Abalos advised motorists that one lane along J.P Rizal Street from the Guadalupe Ferry Station up to the University of Makati will be utilized as drop-off point for MMFF guests and participants while motorists will not be allowed to park in any part of the road that will be used during the duration of the parade.
(Photo: Rappler)
