MANILA, Philippines — Taft Avenue southbound, from Arnaiz Avenue to Escobal Street in Pasay City, will be closed to all vehicles starting 6 a.m. on December 31 to give way to the expected surge of shoppers at the public market ahead of New Year’s Eve, the city’s Traffic and Parking Management Office said Monday. Authorities said the closure aims to ensure pedestrian safety and prevent traffic congestion in the area, which typically sees a large influx of people buying goods and party supplies. Motorists were advised to take an alternate route via Arnaiz Avenue toward Park Avenue, turn left at Park Avenue, go straight to P. Reyes Street, turn left at P. Reyes, continue to P. Villanueva Street, and then turn right at Lions Road to return to Taft Avenue. Traffic enforcers will be deployed along the detour routes to guide motorists and maintain smooth traffic flow throughout the day. Commuters were urged to plan their trips early and allow extra travel time to avoid delays.