DPWH resumes second phase of EDSA rehab from Monumento to Balintawak

MANILA — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) resumes the second phase of the rehabilitation of the southbound portion of EDSA, covering sections from Monumento to Balintawak, starting Friday night, October 16.

The road rehabilitation is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the condition of Metro Manila’s major thoroughfare.

According to the DPWH, rehabilitation works will be carried out simultaneously on a 24/7 basis along selected sections of EDSA, including Balintawak to Roosevelt near Zinnia Road, Kaingin Road to the North Avenue Bus Station, and the Monumento Bus Station to A. De Jesus Road.

The schedule includes breaking and hauling operations beginning at 10 p.m. on October 16, followed by base preparation, rebar installation, and concrete pouring on October 17.

Cutting, sealant application, curing, and housekeeping activities are scheduled for October 18.

While lane closures will be implemented in affected areas, other lanes will remain passable to motorists. The rehabilitated sections are scheduled to reopen to traffic at 5 a.m. on Monday, October 19.

However, commuters and motorists have already experienced longer travel times due to the ongoing roadworks.

Chris Alba, a 19-year-old BPO worker who commutes daily, said the trip to Cubao took longer than usual.

“Mas tumagal po [ang biyahe], to be honest. Kasi kanina nagcommute ako papuntang Cubao. Usually madali lang siya papunta doon pero since kanina, mas tumagal siya,” Alba said.

Alba also noted that while the EDSA busway remained accessible, traffic along the route was moving slowly. A trip from Roosevelt to Trinoma took around 20 to 25 minutes, compared with the usual 15 to 16 minutes.

Meanwhile, taxi driver George said the roadworks have affected his livelihood amid high fuel prices and fewer passengers.

“Mahina. Nakakaabala pero kasi wala nang magagawa e,” he said.

“Mahina ang pasahero [ngayon]. Sa mahal ng gas, wala nang mangyayari sa biyahe talaga,” he added.

The DPWH advised the public to exercise caution, follow traffic advisories, and consider alternative routes while rehabilitation works are ongoing.