Manila: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced on Thursday that it does not foresee any justification for closing the EDSA Busway, citing its effectiveness and the large volume of passengers it serves.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOTr Executive Assistant to the Office of the Secretary, Jonathan Gesmundo, shared in an interview with Radyo Pilipinas that the EDSA Busway served a total of 62 million passengers in 2024, with 5.5 million passengers utilizing it just last month. Gesmundo emphasized the importance of maintaining the busway due to its role as a rapid thoroughfare for public transport, highlighting its effectiveness.

DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista praised the busway as the "most efficient public road transport system in Metro Manila." He noted that a feasibility study is currently underway, conducted by the private sector, to explore ways to enhance the EDSA Busway further. Bautista mentioned that the primary aim is to improve the commuter experience without exacerbating current traffic conditions.

Previously, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chair Romando Artes indicated that the closure of the EDSA Busway was under consideration as part of a proposal to improve the MRT-3 system. However, the DOTr maintains that the busway's current operations provide significant benefits to the commuting public.