Odd-Even Scheme on EDSA to Ease Traffic During Rehabilitation

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In light of the extensive two-year rehabilitation project on EDSA, set to commence on June 13, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has announced a 24-hour odd-even license plate coding scheme along Metro Manila's busiest highway starting June 16. The initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion during the project.

Under this scheme, vehicles with license plates ending in odd numbers are prohibited on EDSA on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, while those with even numbers are banned on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The MMDA Chairman, Romando Artes, anticipates a 40% reduction in traffic volume as a result of this measure. A one-week dry run will precede the enforcement, during which violators will not receive tickets.

Exceptions to the coding scheme include electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as transport network vehicle services like Grab, Angkas, and JoyRide. Additionally, provincial buses and trucks transporting perishable goods and aviation fuel will have access to EDSA only between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.

Alongside these changes, certain portions of Skyway Stage 3 will be toll-free in July, offering an alternative route to EDSA commuters. The MMDA is also contemplating adjustments to the road layout, such as removing bollards from the exclusive bicycle lane to create a shared path for cyclists and motorcycles. An exclusive motorcycle lane will be designated, prohibiting riders from using flyovers and underpasses on EDSA.

Efforts to clear alternate routes, known as Mabuhay lanes, will be intensified to ensure they remain unobstructed, with fines issued to parked vehicles. Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan stated the EDSA Rebuild project would prioritize the section from Pasay to Guadalupe, beginning with the bus lane and gradually expanding to outer lanes.

To accommodate commuters during the rehabilitation, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) will increase the number of EDSA Carousel buses by 100 units and enhance services on the Metro Rail Transit Line 3. The DOTr hopes these improvements will encourage private car owners to consider public transport, thus further reducing traffic on EDSA.

Regarding the financial impact on Skyway operator San Miguel Corp., Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon mentioned potential compensation through an extended concession, though no definitive decisions have been made.

EDSA’s repairs are projected to conclude in 2027, aiming to improve the overall efficiency and condition of this vital thoroughfare.

Simultaneously, the MMDA's ongoing no-contact apprehension policy (NCAP) has been under scrutiny. Senate President Francis Escudero emphasized the need for a fair, fast, and transparent enforcement process after the Supreme Court lifted a previous restraining order on NCAP. The MMDA is tasked with reviewing and validating traffic violations captured by CCTV before issuing notices to ensure due process and prevent penalty accumulation.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-05-27