Manila: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced that the rehabilitation of Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (EDSA), one of Metro Manila's major thoroughfares, is scheduled to commence next Wednesday, December 24. Secretary Vince Dizon outlined the plans during a press briefing, indicating the start of the project's first phase.

According to Philippines News Agency, the initial phase of the rehabilitation will cover the stretch from Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City to Orense Street in Makati City. Dizon highlighted that after completing this section, the rest of EDSA will undergo rehabilitation. The project involves reblocking and asphalt overlay, which will initially proceed continuously until 4 a.m. on January 5, 2026. Thereafter, construction activities will be limited to nighttime hours on weekdays, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., to minimize disruption.

Dizon explained that unlike the original plan, the current strategy involves selective reblocking rather than a complete closure of the highway. This change aims to streamline the process and reduce inconvenience to motorists. Furthermore, the revised plan significantly shortens the rehabilitation period from two years to eight months, with each phase taking four months to complete.

The budget for the project has been reduced from PHP17 billion to PHP6 billion, resulting in savings of PHP11 billion. Dizon emphasized that these savings amount to almost one-third of the original budget. He also reassured the public that the rehabilitation project is designed to have minimal impact on traffic, aligning with the President's directive to minimize disruption for motorists.