SENATORS PUSH FOR ALTERNATIVE TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS OVER EDSA CONGESTION FEES

MANILA – On Thursday, February 6, Senators called for smarter traffic solutions instead of the proposed congestion fees for EDSA. They argued that addressing the root causes of traffic should be the government’s priority, including improving public transportation and promoting remote work, rather than adding financial burdens to motorists.

Senator Joel Villanueva, author of the Work-from-Home Law (Republic Act No. 11165), emphasized that fully implementing telecommuting could reduce the need for daily commuting, helping to ease traffic without extra costs. “Instead of penalizing motorists with congestion fees, why not maximize the potential of the Work-from-Home Law? It reduces traffic, promotes work-life balance, and boosts productivity,” Villanueva said in a statement.

He stressed that the real solution lies in improving public transport and reducing unnecessary travel, which RA 11165 was designed to support.

Senator Grace Poe echoed these sentiments, saying traffic management reforms should come before any road pricing on EDSA. She noted that enhancing public transportation would encourage commuters to leave their cars at home, while clearing secondary roads of obstructions could provide viable alternatives to EDSA.

Poe also warned that implementing congestion fees without adequate traffic solutions could worsen the burden on already struggling motorists, who are also facing high fuel prices and inflation. “Public consultation is essential. Without real solutions, congestion fees will only add to the hardships,” she added.

Both senators stressed the need for policies that address the underlying causes of traffic, focusing on sustainability, equity, and improving the overall commuter experience.

The congestion fee proposal is part of the Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan for Metro Manila, which aims to reduce traffic on EDSA, a 23-kilometer stretch notorious for daily gridlock. The plan suggests charging fees for vehicles using EDSA during peak hours in an effort to reduce congestion and promote public transportation.

ia/mnm