EDSA Rebuild: Making Metro Manila’s Busiest Highway Safer for Pedestrians and Commuters

For decades, EDSA has been synonymous with traffic jams, long commutes, and dangerous conditions for pedestrians. But now, the government is taking steps to transform Metro Manila’s most infamous highway into a safer, more inclusive road — not just for motorists, but for pedestrians and commuters too.

A Walk to Understand the Problem

On May 26, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon joined road safety advocates from Move As One Coalition in a walk along EDSA. The goal? To experience firsthand what thousands of Filipinos go through daily.

“It’s very important for government officials like myself to really know how it feels,” Dizon said in a TV interview. His biggest takeaway? EDSA is dangerously unfriendly to pedestrians.

“There are many areas where you could get hit by motorcycles or vehicles. You’re really not safe,” he noted.

The EDSA Rebuild Project: What’s Changing?

The EDSA Rebuild project, set to begin preparatory work on June 13, marks the first major overhaul of the highway since 1980. Here’s what to expect:

1. Safer Pedestrian Walkways

• Upgraded pedestrian lanes
• Better crossings to prevent accidents
• Improved drainage systems

2. Road Repairs (But Not Just for Cars)

• New concrete and asphalt paving
• Lane-by-lane construction to minimize disruption

3. Priority for Commuters

• EDSA Carousel buses will remain operational
• The bus lane will stay exclusive
• MRT-3 will add more trains and four-car sets to increase capacity

With a budget of ₱8.7 billion, the project aims to make EDSA walkable and safe — not just a highway for cars.

A Strong Message to Commuters

Dizon emphasized that this initiative reflects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to prioritizing commuters.

“This sends a very strong statement… that commuters are the most important users of EDSA,” he said.

The Bottom Line

The EDSA Rebuild isn’t just about fixing potholes — it’s about rethinking who the road serves. If successful, it could finally make EDSA a safer, more efficient space for everyone, not just drivers.