Photo credit: DOTr

Good news, commuters. If you’ve been worried about losing the EDSA Busway, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has set the record straight: it’s here to stay—and it’s only going to get better.

In a radio interview on Friday, Sec. Bautista assured the public that the dedicated lane for buses, which serves thousands of daily commuters, will not be removed to accommodate private vehicles. Instead, the government is working on improving it, with plans to privatize its operations and management (O&M) for a more efficient system.

“Hindi Tatanggalin ang EDSA Busway”

“Yes, hindi tatanggalin ang EDSA Busway. Nagkaroon lang ng discussion diyan pero hindi siya tatanggalin,” Sec. Bautista clarified on DWPM Radyo 630.

He also shared that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other Cabinet officials recently discussed the Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan (CTMP) for Metro Manila and nearby provinces. The consensus? Public transport must be efficient and reliable.

How Will the Busway Improve?

Aside from keeping the EDSA Busway, the government is already allowing point-to-point (P2P) and airport express buses to use the lane, helping reduce congestion along Metro Manila’s busiest highway.

Even bigger changes are coming. Sec. Bautista confirmed that a feasibility study for the busway’s privatization is already underway and is expected to wrap up in a few months. If all goes well, the new private operator could be in charge by the end of 2026.

What Does This Mean for Commuters?

According to the transport chief, the goal is simple: make the EDSA Busway meet international standards so that passengers enjoy a more comfortable and convenient ride.

“Gusto sana natin na yung EDSA Busway conforms to international standards para sa comfort at convenience ng ating mga pasahero,” Sec. Bautista emphasized.

So, if you were dreading a return to pre-busway chaos, don’t worry. The EDSA Busway isn’t just staying—it’s about to get even better.