Reacting to the recent Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan that was presented by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to the President, which includes the eventual phase-out of the EDSA Busway System, as well as the possibility of charging a fee to use the busiest thruway in the metro, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has issued the following statement:

“The Department of Transportation (DOTr) believes the EDSA busway continues to be one of the most efficient public road transport systems in Metro Manila. In 2024, over 63 million commuters enjoyed an efficient travel experience along the EDSA Busway. In January 2025 alone, the busway served more than 5.5 million passengers, averaging 177,000 daily commuters who reached their destinations conveniently, safely, and quickly.

The EDSA busway is seen as a crucial step towards a progressive public transportation system with 23 stations operating 24/7, affording commuters a safe and reliable option for transport.

Today, Secretary Jaime J. Bautista is waiting for the result of the feasibility study on how best to improve the EDSA Busway tapping private sector technical and financial expertise. The goal is to improve the commuter experience without worsening existing traffic conditions.”

On the issue of modifying the exclusive bicycle lanes to a shared lane with motorcycles, DOTr Secretary, Jaime Bautista says that it should be studied further.