President Marcos Jr. has announced a temporary halt to the EDSA rehabilitation project, originally slated to begin on June 13. The decision, revealed Sunday, stems from a desire to explore new technologies that could significantly fast-track the 23.8-kilometer thoroughfare’s upgrade.
EDSA Rehab Paused
President Marcos Jr. emphasized the need for a one-month study period, stating that the project’s original two-year timeline posed an “enormous sacrifice” for commuters due to anticipated severe traffic congestion. “If we look at the cost-benefit analysis, it would be good, but two years is a big sacrifice since there would be heavy traffic,” he remarked in a video shared by Super Radyo dzBB. He expressed hope that new methods could potentially shorten the construction to as little as one month.
The Department of Transportation had previously warned of “heavy traffic” until 2027 under the initial plan, with concerns of a potential “carmageddon” influencing the President’s decision. DOTr chief Dizon confirmed that Marcos Jr. listened to both residents and experts who suggested more effective methods and modern technologies.
While motorists shared mixed reactions, the postponement also means the proposed Odd-Even Scheme for EDSA is now canceled, though the Number Coding Scheme remains in effect.
In addition, the PHP 8 billion rehabilitation aims to modernize EDSA and make it flood-free. Senators, including Joel Villanueva, Grace Poe, and JV Ejercito, have welcomed the delay, advocating for extensive consultations and a more comprehensive traffic management plan.
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