EDSA Rehabilitation: New Traffic Measures and Alternate Routes Motorists Should Know

The EDSA rehabilitation is set to begin on June 13, bringing major traffic and road adjustments during its preparatory works.

This extensive project aims to rebuild the 200-kilometer stretch of EDSA’s southbound and northbound lanes using new, more durable concrete pavement and a thick asphalt running surface.

Photo: AI-generated

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), along with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), announced that the rehabilitation will be conducted in phases. The initial focus will be on the sections from Pasay to Guadalupe, in preparation for the country’s hosting of the ASEAN Summit in 2026.

The EDSA rehabilitation is expected to last until 2027, with construction continuing around the clock to expedite completion. Given these developments, here are the significant changes in traffic measures, road closures, and alternate routes every motorist and commuter must know.

EDSA Busway Operations

The EDSA busway will remain fully operational throughout the rehabilitation. However, strict enforcement will limit loading and unloading to a maximum of two buses at a time, with a mandatory 30-second waiting period. Additionally, 100 new buses will be deployed to cater to more commuters.

Skyway Stage 3 Toll Waiver

Toll fees on Skyway Stage 3 will be waived starting around July or August to help ease congestion during the EDSA rehabilitation period.

Odd-Even Number Coding Scheme on EDSA

A 24-hour odd-even number coding scheme will be enforced on EDSA beginning June 16 to reduce vehicle volume. Hybrid vehicles, electric cars, and Transportation Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) are exempted.

• Vehicles with license plates ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 are prohibited on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
• Vehicles with license plates ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 are prohibited on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
• Sundays will be coding-free.

MRT-3 X-ray Machine Removal

X-ray machines at MRT-3 stations will be removed to reduce passenger queuing times. Pilot testing will begin at Taft Avenue and North Avenue stations. Additional trains will also be deployed to increase capacity.

Provincial Bus and Truck Ban

Provincial buses and trucks will be temporarily banned from EDSA between 5 AM and 10 PM. They will only be permitted during window hours from 10 PM to 5 AM.

Motorcycle and Bicycle Lanes

Bike lane separators along EDSA will be temporarily removed. Discussions are ongoing regarding the introduction of exclusive motorcycle lanes.

Alternate Routes

Alternate routes will be opened to help ease traffic. Regular clearing operations will be conducted to prevent obstructions, with strict enforcement against illegal parking to keep traffic flowing smoothly.

As of this writing, the following traffic measures for the EDSA rehabilitation were discussed by the DPWH, DOTr, and MMDA during a press conference held on May 26. We’ll keep you updated!

Stay safe on the road, everyone.

ALSO READ: No-Contact Apprehension Policy Set to Resume Enforcement