MANILA – The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) has opposed the proposed closure of the EDSA Busway, advocating instead for the optimization of the Mabuhay Lanes to ease Metro Manila’s traffic.

In a Feb. 7 statement, MAP stressed the need to clear the Mabuhay Lanes of obstructions, particularly for motorcycles, which can help decongest EDSA. The group warned that converting the busway into an additional lane for private vehicles would not solve traffic woes, as past experiences show these lanes quickly fill up.

MAP also questioned the feasibility of congestion fees for motorists and raised concerns about overloading the MRT-3 if bus passengers are forced to shift to trains. The group argued that dismantling the EDSA Bus Carousel Line contradicts the National Transport Policy of 2017, which prioritizes public transit.

With the busway’s privatization process nearing the bidding stage, backed by the PPP Center and the World Bank, MAP urged the government to present a unified stance on the project.

According to the Department of Transportation, the busway served over 63 million commuters last year, benefiting around 177,000 Filipinos daily.

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MANILA – Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has announced that the privatization of the Edsa Busway system is set to commence in the first quarter of 2025.

Bautista revealed that preparations are underway for the terms of reference for the busway’s privatization. This crucial transport route operates along one of Metro Manila’s busiest thoroughfares.

“We are working diligently to finalize the terms of reference,” Bautista stated. “Our target is to complete this by the end of the first quarter or the beginning of the second quarter of 2025.”

The Transportation Secretary explained that a consultant is aiding in drafting the terms of reference, which will then be subject to a competitive bidding process. The successful bidder will assume responsibility for providing buses and managing the entire busway operation.

This move aims to enhance the efficiency and service quality of the Edsa Busway, which serves as a vital artery for commuters traversing one of the Philippines’ most congested roads.

As part of the initiative, the winning bidder will also implement an electronic scheduling system to improve commuter convenience. Bautista stressed the importance of reliable timetables, akin to systems in other countries, to allow passengers to track bus arrivals accurately.

The plan may include the development of a mobile app to assist commuters in planning their trips more efficiently by providing real-time bus arrival information.

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