‘Carmageddon’ by June as EDSA ‘rebuild’ starts

EDSA’s tumultuous traffic will definitely worsen when government commences a total rebuild of Metro Manila’s main thoroughfare starting mid-June, according to the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon explained the long-overdue rehabilitation of EDSA. “Kailangan simulan na ‘yan kasi nga, sabi nga ng Pangulo, 45 years na bago talagang inayos ang EDSA,” said Dizon.

“Ito ang isa sa mga pinakaklarong ehemplo ng ‘Build Better More,’ dahil alam na nga natin ang dating kinagawaan, patsi-patsi, re-block, rehab,” the DOTr chief said, referring to the Marcos administration’s centerpiece infrastructure program.

“Hindi ito rehab, rebuild na talaga ito ng EDSA, total rebuild. Babaguhin na natin ang EDSA,” he added.

Government is racing to revamp EDSA in preparation for the Philippines’ hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit next year, as the country assumes the rotating chair of the 10-member bloc.

The entire rehabilitation is expected to take over a year and a half.

While other details are still under wraps, Dizon is already cautioning the public to brace for heavy traffic once it is underway.

He said the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has been instructed to prepare for traffic mitigation measures such as alternative routes.

DOTr is also in talks with Ramon Ang-led San Miguel Corp. (SMC) regarding a potential toll suspension in certain parts of the Skyway provide alternative route for motorists.

“Mahirap siya habang ginagawa—magta-traffic, may perwisyo. Pero ‘pag natapos ito, talagang napakalaking ginhawa nito,” said Dizon.

MMDA Chairman Don Artes said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has instructed the agencies overseeing EDSA’s rehabilitation to prepare for a massive information drive as the target start nears.

The information drive is expected to reiterate to motorists and commuters the intense traffic on the horizon, alongside the mitigation schemes.