In preparation for the upcoming rehabilitation of the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), one of Metro Manila’s busiest and most vital highways, the government is working closely with key agencies to develop traffic management plans aimed at minimizing public inconvenience. This initiative forms part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s “Build Better More” infrastructure program, designed to address long-standing issues such as traffic congestion and flooding through essential road repairs and drainage improvements.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) are currently collaborating to ensure a seamless transition during the EDSA rehabilitation, which is slated to begin in June.
A Major Step for Metro Manila’s Infrastructure
“While the rehabilitation of EDSA is necessary to improve our roadways and reduce traffic, we understand that there will be some inconvenience,” said DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan during a briefing at Malacañang on Wednesday. “Our goal is to mitigate these disruptions as much as possible through careful planning and the implementation of alternative routes.”
At approximately 24 kilometers long, EDSA is a critical thoroughfare connecting key areas in Metro Manila, stretching from the Bonifacio Monumento Circle in Caloocan to Pasay City. The rehabilitation project will involve major repairs along the highway, which will require contractors and construction workers to occupy parts of the road. This will inevitably impact traffic flow during the rehabilitation period, but the government is committed to minimizing disruptions.
Strategic Traffic Management and Rerouting Plans
To address the potential impact on daily commuters, the MMDA and DOTr are actively identifying alternate routes. They are also studying various traffic management strategies, including the possibility of allowing certain vehicles to use the Skyway as a rerouting option. This would provide an alternative for motorists, alleviating congestion along EDSA.
Furthermore, the DPWH is collaborating with the MMDA to explore the creation of designated lanes for motor vehicles, bicycles, and motorcycles to prevent lane congestion and ensure a smoother flow of traffic. These measures aim to keep Metro Manila’s transportation network functioning as efficiently as possible during the rehabilitation process.
A Vision for the Future
The EDSA rehabilitation project is part of the broader vision to improve the country’s infrastructure, which includes reducing traffic congestion, addressing flooding, and enhancing the overall quality of life for Metro Manila residents. As the government works to improve the region’s roads and drainage systems, officials urge the public to stay informed about updates and road closures to better plan their commutes.
“We ask for the public’s patience and cooperation as we undertake this important project,” Secretary Bonoan added. “The long-term benefits of this rehabilitation will be felt by all, as it will pave the way for a more efficient and safer transportation system.”
The “Build Better More” program is a key initiative under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. aimed at upgrading the Philippines’ infrastructure, creating sustainable and modern road networks, and providing essential services that will benefit the Filipino people. The EDSA rehabilitation project is one of many such efforts designed to improve urban mobility and the quality of public infrastructure across the country.
