Smooth operations of MRT-3 and Busway eyed amid looming EDSA rehab

MANILA -- The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said it will work closely with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to ensure trains and busways will operate smoothly during the planned massive rehabilitation of EDSA.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said they expect more passengers to take the MRT-3 and EDSA Busway once the EDSA rehabilitation begins.

Bautista said the rehabilitation will cause heavier traffic congestion along Metro Manila's main thoroughfare.

"We are expecting na mas marami ang sasakay sa MRT-3 dahil ang MRT-3 ay hindi naman masyadong maaapektuhan ng rehabilitation ganundin ang EDSA Busway. Although sa EDSA Busway continuous pa rin ang magiging operations nya, ang maaapektuhan ang side na magagamit ng private vehicles,” Bautista said.

“So we will work closely with DPWH and MMDA, importante rin na makipagtulungan kami sa MMDA para maging smooth ang operations ng MMDA at MRT3.” 

DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan earlier announced that the government is set to rehabilitate the entire stretch of EDSA as part of efforts to improve the riding quality of the iconic highway.

EDSA rehabilitation project to be 'done in segments': DPWH

Bonoan said EDSA rehabilitation "will be done in segments," but nevertheless asked the public for patience amid "whatever inconvenience the road works might cause."

For years, road reblocking was implemented along various sections of the metropolis' main thoroughway for its maintenance.

"Once na nagawa natin itong rehabilitation na ito, I am sure the for the next 10 to 15 years, hindi na tayo magre-reblock," Bonoan said.