Transpo advocacy group lauds keeping busway open despite EDSA rehab

A public transportation and mobility advocacy group welcomed Wednesday the decision of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to keep the EDSA Busway open even with the major thoroughfare's planned rehabilitation slated to begin this month.

In a statement, Move As One Coalition lauded Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon's "clear message" that "public transportation deserves priority on public roads."

The group issued the statement after Dizon, in an exclusive interview with GMA Integrated News, said that "EDSA Busway will not be closed even during the rehabilitation of EDSA."

With this, Move As One Coalition said it "greatly appreciates the recent statements made by the Department of Transportation Sec. Vince Dizon in a GMA News report regarding the continued operation of the EDSA Busway during EDSA's upcoming rehabilitation."

The Transportation chief, in particular, said there would be portions where busway users will have to leave the dedicated lane, but can return in parts with no roadworks or where these are already finished.

"The Coalition commends Sec. Dizon for his clear stance, which cancels an earlier announcement from the Department of Public Works and Highways that the busway would be closed during the rehabilitation of EDSA," the group said.

"Move As One Coalition co-convenor Robert Siy describes Sec. Dizon's statements show 'sound management of our road assets, delivering the greatest good for the greatest number,'" it said.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the National Capital Region (NCR) said Saturday the rehabilitation of EDSA would start with the closure of the EDSA busway.

Move As One Coalition said the decision to keep the busway open is a positive move since "94% of Filipinos do not own a private car."

"They ride public transportation, walk, or pedal bicycles. Filipinos of all ages and abilities have a right to safer, more humane, and more inclusive public transportation," it said. — VDV, GMA Integrated News