MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has suspended the much-anticipated rehabilitation of EDSA, originally slated to commence on June 13, 2025. This decision follows widespread public calls for a reassessment of the project.

In his statement, the President emphasized the need for a thorough study lasting one month to identify available technologies that could expedite the rehabilitation process.

The rehabilitation project involves a significant 23.8-kilometer stretch of EDSA and is projected to require a substantial two years to complete.

President Marcos highlighted the considerable hardship anticipated for commuters during this period, referring to the extensive disruption that traffic congestion would cause.

"The sacrifice of two years is too great," Marcos stated, adding that a comprehensive and effective plan is needed to significantly reduce the duration of the rehabilitation.

"Let’s give ourselves a month to assess new technologies and possibly develop a plan that allows us to complete the work in a much shorter timeframe," he remarked.

Acknowledging commuter concerns, the President noted that many travelers expressed worries about longer commute times should the rehabilitation proceed as planned.

He articulated these sentiments during the launch of the Family Fare 1+3 initiative, which offers free rides to family members on select trains in Metro Manila.

Due to the suspension of the rehabilitation, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced that the previously planned odd-even traffic scheme for EDSA would also be canceled.

However, the existing number coding scheme will remain in effect to help mitigate traffic congestion under current conditions.

Marcos has directed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), and the MMDA, among other agencies, to develop concrete plans that incorporate modern technologies to ensure a more efficient execution of the rehabilitation.

DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon affirmed that the President has heeded expert advice indicating that more effective methods and technologies could be utilized to expedite the rehabilitation process.

The EDSA Rebuild Project was allocated a budget of PHP 8.7 billion, with initial plans including the replacement of damaged concrete, installation of new asphalt layers, road widening, sidewalk repairs, drainage system upgrades, and enhancements to lighting and signage.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has reiterated that the government's approach will prioritize minimizing the burden on commuters.

The DPWH is tasked with identifying alternative methods and technologies that can facilitate quicker project completion while avoiding significant public inconvenience.

Secretary Manuel Bonoan expressed reservations regarding plans for a second-level road on EDSA, stating that such proposals could further extend the timeline of the project.

As the government endeavors to develop practical solutions, the focus remains on minimizing disruption for the millions of motorists and commuters who rely on this vital thoroughfare.