Senate Voices Support to Postpone EDSA Rehabilitation Project
Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero announced his support on Monday, June 2, for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s decision to postpone the EDSA rehabilitation project. He emphasized that the project requires a more thorough study before moving forward.
Escudero highlighted the lack of planning by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) as a main reason for the delay. “For me, it was only right to postpone it because the DPWH seems to lack planning here. Two or three years is too long to do that,” he said in Filipino during a Senate press briefing.
He acknowledged the unfortunate impact on commuters who rely heavily on EDSA, one of the country’s main thoroughfares. “It’s unfortunate for our commuters, it’s unfortunate for those who use EDSA, which is our main route,” Escudero added.
Concerns Over Alternate Route Planning
Escudero also questioned why the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and other agencies delayed preparing alternative routes crossing the Pasig River, especially knowing the Guadalupe Bridge would be under repair. “What I know is that there are only two separate bridges; why didn’t they build a bailey bridge that will connect, cross the Pasig River so that it can ease the woes of commuters,” he asked.
He pointed out the lack of preparation and foresight from DPWH given the long postponement period. When asked if a one-month postponement is sufficient, Escudero replied affirmatively, saying it allows time to evaluate the project and decide on the next steps.
Senator Pia Cayetano Backs Suspension of EDSA Rehabilitation
Meanwhile, Senator Pia Cayetano also expressed support for President Marcos Jr.’s order to suspend the EDSA rehabilitation. She cited the “horrendous traffic” that would result from road closures, which would burden millions of commuters already facing some of Asia’s worst congestion.
“While the need to modernize our roads and infrastructure is clear, the government should strive to do so with the least possible inconvenience to the commuting public – people who are simply trying to get to work, school, or home to their families,” Cayetano said.
She urged the government to explore modern technologies and innovative construction methods to speed up the rehabilitation process. “This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which calls for infrastructure development that is inclusive, safe, resilient, and considerate of people’s daily lives,” she added.
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