Government Halts EDSA Rehabilitation Project
President Marcos confirmed that the government will not proceed with the suspended EDSA rehabilitation project until solid rerouting plans are finalized and newer, faster technologies are considered to reduce public disruption. He emphasized the importance of protecting commuters and motorists on Metro Manila’s busiest highway.
In his recent vlog, the President reiterated his directive to delay the overhaul work to avoid burdening daily commuters. “We will find a better way na hindi masyadong mahirap para sa ating mga commuter,” he assured, highlighting the need for a more commuter-friendly approach.
Marcos pointed out the absence of detailed rerouting schemes and the unreadiness of local government units as the main reasons for the pause. “Hangga’t wala akong nakikitang solid na mga rerouting plans at masiguro na handang-handa na ang mga LGUs, huwag muna natin gawin,” he stated firmly.
Concerns Prompt Delay of EDSA Rehabilitation Project
The President first announced the suspension during the launch of the “Family Fare 1+3” free ride program on MRT-3 and LRT-2 on June 1. Public worries about heavier traffic, longer travel times, and insufficient mitigating measures led him to intervene.
“Ang daming mali, nag-aalala na papano yung trabaho namin, e kung ang pag-commute namin ay napakatagal na, madadagdagan pa ng isang oras, dalawang oras, wala na talaga, hindi na kami uuwi,” Marcos expressed, reflecting the frustrations of many commuters.
Originally slated to begin on June 13 and continue until 2027, the EDSA rehabilitation project will now undergo a thorough month-long review. The President assigned Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manny Bonoan and Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon to reassess the timeline, aiming to shorten it significantly.
“Mas maganda kung maayos natin ngunit ang laking sakripisyo ng dalawang taon,” Marcos said, proposing a revised timeline of six months to one year through the use of advanced technologies not included in the original plan.
Focus on Technology and Cost-Benefit Analysis
Marcos stressed the importance of conducting a proper cost-benefit analysis before moving forward. The government is exploring innovations that could reduce both construction time and expenses.
“Pag-aralan natin itong mga bagong teknolohiya na nakikita natin…baka naman imbes na dalawang taon, magawa natin ng anim na buwan,” he added, suggesting that new methods could dramatically speed up the project.
Despite the urgency to fix EDSA, the President reaffirmed that commuters’ welfare remains a top priority. He assured the public that infrastructure development will continue but not at the cost of convenience or quality of life.
“Ang sabi ko nga ay masyadong matagal naman ‘yung dalawang taon para maabala ang mga kababayan natin,” Marcos concluded, underscoring his commitment to balance progress with public comfort.
For more news and updates on EDSA rehabilitation project, visit Filipinokami.com.