MANILA — Commonwealth Avenue, once a bustling thoroughfare, has become a hot topic on social media due to its worsening traffic congestion. 

According to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), a staggering 18,000 vehicles traverse the avenue daily during peak morning hours. 

Of these, 10,000 head towards Quezon Avenue, while 8,000 continue their journey to East Avenue.

In response to the growing traffic congestion problem, MMDA Chairman Don Artes announced plans to explore the construction of an underground tunnel as a potential solution.

"Ang isa sa mga inaaral ang maglagay po ng tunnel mula Commonwealth diretso na sa East Avenue o Quezon Avenue. Dadaan siya sa ilalim ng Elliptical Circle,” he said.

The agency is also considering implementing a bus carousel system along Commonwealth Avenue, similar to the one currently operating on EDSA.

"Nakakarating naman sa amin yang obeserbasyon na pabigat ng pabigat ang trapik sa Commonwealth tinitignan po natin kasama dyan yung paglalagay ng bus lane,” Artes said.

The ongoing delays in the construction of the MRT-7 line have further exacerbated the traffic congestion on Commonwealth Avenue. As the holiday season approaches, Chairman Artes has emphasized the need for proactive measures to mitigate traffic-related issues and ensure a smoother flow of vehicles.

"Prohibitions sa diggings pag malapit na ang pasko iset po natin yan yung mga request natin sa malls to adjust mall hours para ma spread ang mga sasakyan. Ilalatag natin yan bago matapos October,” he said.