Coming from the successful security and traffic management of the state and pastoral visit of Pope Francis in January, the local government of Manila is preparing for another similarly important event geared toward sustaining the uptrend in tourism-related activities in the city.

The Shell Eco-marathon Asia, a competition of environment-friendly cars invented by engineering students from all over the region, will be held once more at the Rizal Park on February 26 to March 1.

Last year was the first time the prestigious regional event was held in Manila, during the centennial celebration of Shell companies in the Philippines. The country will host the Shell Eco-marathon until 2016.

A portion of the Rizal Park will be closed off for the event, where a special racetrack will be constructed along with a stadium and event grounds to enable the public to safely participate and witness the proceedings.

A corresponding traffic re-routing scheme will also be implemented by the Manila city government on the said dates of the event.

Over 1,000 delegates and visitors from abroad will arrive in the country for the Shell Eco-marathon Asia 2015, for an estimated crowd total of over 40,000. In 2014, the event drew 33,000 visitors.

"It is a big privilege for the Philippines to host such a renowned and highly anticipated event," states Lyndon Lumain, general manager of the Shell Eco-marathon Asia. "Most importantly, it puts us on the map of the global advocacy on smarter mobility and fuel-efficient driving."

"We join the city of Manila in anticipating the five-day event to stimulate much-needed activity in the local economy," adds Lumain.

Despite the potential inconveniences in terms of traffic re-routing, "we enjoin everyone to extend understanding as well as cooperation," he says.

The Shell Eco-marathon Asia is open to the public. In order to help manage the anticipated crowds, interested visitors are encouraged to register beforehand. For more information on the event, visit https://www.shellecomarathon.ph/registration.