Edsa rehab to begin in March, says MMDA chief
POSSIBLE SOLUTION In preparation for the rehabilitation of Edsa, a modified work schedule for all Metro Manila government employees is being proposed. —INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines – The rehabilitation of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (Edsa) is set to begin in March starting with the southbound lanes, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Don Artes said Wednesday.
In a Palace briefing, Artes said the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is finalizing the project’s timetable and traffic management plan.
The goal is to complete the rehabilitation in time for the Philippines’ hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Summit in 2026.
“The target is still to start in March so that it will be finished in time for the Asean. The southbound lanes will be prioritized,” Artes said in Filipino.
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Article continues after this advertisementArtes also said the project might face challenges due to simultaneous drainage system improvements on Edsa.
“One of the challenges discussed yesterday is that the drainage system along Edsa will also be constructed to prevent flooding. We raised concerns because many utilities are located in the outer lanes,” he said in Filipino.
Artes also noted that previous road projects encountered delays due to existing utility lines.
“Based on our experience, even with a walk-through and markings, the as-built plans are sometimes not followed by telcos and water utilities. During construction, unexpected utility lines are hit, which slows down the work,” he explained in Filipino.
To minimize disruptions, the MMDA has identified key areas with limited alternate routes.
Artes cited the Kamuning Flyover closure as an example, where efficient traffic management prevented severe congestion.
“When we closed the Kamuning Flyover, there were three alternate roads available before re-entering Edsa. With proper management, it didn’t cause heavy traffic. However, some areas of Edsa don’t have similar alternative routes,” he said in Filipino.
Artes mentioned that a proposed “out-of-the-box” solution was discussed with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., but details remain undisclosed pending further review.
“The President said we have to consider it. He asked for specific figures before making a decision. But I think he is receptive to the idea,” he added.
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The MMDA chief expressed optimism that once the Edsa rehabilitation is completed, traffic will improve.
“If you look at Edsa, and we all pass through it daily, many portions are riddled with potholes because the road is old,” he said in Filipino.
He also assured the public that once the rehabilitation is completed, smoother roads will ease congestion.
“Once this is done, the road will be repaved with better asphalt, allowing vehicles to move faster. Hopefully, this will improve traffic conditions on Edsa once the rehabilitation is completed,” he added.
