TRANSPORTATION Secretary Vince Dizon on Thursday made public the ambitious plan to upgrade EDSA, the country's busiest thoroughfare, to ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila.

"This is not just about road repairs; this is about transforming EDSA into a world-class highway that serves the people efficiently," Dizon said in a press briefing with officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Metro Manila Council.

"For decades, EDSA has been a symbol of Metro Manila's traffic problems. Our goal is to make it a model of efficiency and modern urban transport," he added.

Dizon said the rehabilitation would involve extensive road resurfacing, upgrading of pedestrian walkways, expansion of bus lanes, and use of an intelligent transport system to enhance traffic flow.

The DPWH would be tasked to handle infrastructure improvements and the MMDA traffic management during the construction phase.

"We know that people are worried about the short-term impact on their daily commutes. That's why we are coordinating closely with MMDA and DPWH to ensure that the disruptions are minimized. Alternative routes will be well-publicized, and we will strengthen our communication with the public," Dizon said.

MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said on Thursday that the agency was now working on a comprehensive traffic plan for the initiative.

"We are currently identifying alternate routes, and the president's instruction is clear — ease the burden on the public, especially the daily commuters. All our strategies revolve around that goal," Artes said.

"We will be calling for your support. This is not just the national government's responsibility; it requires a concerted effort from LGUs, motorists, and commuters. Everyone's cooperation is vital as we navigate the expected disruptions," he added.

A major component of the project is the upgrade of mass transit options along EDSA.

"The EDSA Busway has already proven to be a game-changer, cutting down travel time for thousands of commuters daily. With the upcoming upgrades, we will further improve bus terminals, increase the number of bus units, and integrate better scheduling to reduce waiting times," Dizon said.

Dizon added that the Department of Transportation was working with railway authorities to align the rehabilitation project with the ongoing expansion of the Metro Rail Transit system to reduce dependence on private vehicles.

The project, slated to begin in the second half of 2025, was expected to be completed before the end of the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in 2028.

"The president has made it clear that infrastructure development is a top priority. We are committed to delivering results within this administration," Dizon said. WITH ADELFA CELESTINO