Manila: The innermost lanes of both the northbound and southbound sections of Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (EDSA), stretching from Roxas Boulevard to Orense, have been fully reopened for authorized passenger buses. This development comes after the completion of the asphalt overlay as part of the extensive EDSA Rehabilitation project.
According to Philippines News Agency, the rehabilitation project was completed on schedule, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s mandate to expedite improvements. The initiative aims to ensure faster and more comfortable travel experiences as commuters return to their routines post-holidays. Acting Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez expressed gratitude towards Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon for completing the project on time.
"This is exactly what we need as most passengers are going back to work, and they'll be able to quickly and conveniently use the busway," Lopez stated. He also reiterated that the innermost lanes are reserved exclusively for authorized passenger buses.
Lopez highlighted that the Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) personnel are tasked with apprehending private vehicles that misuse the busway. Additionally, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) continues to enforce the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP).
On Sunday, MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III conducted inspections of busway stations along EDSA to ensure they are fully prepared to resume normal operations on Monday. Meanwhile, repair works for other sections of EDSA are ongoing, albeit on a restricted schedule from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily.