MMDA reopens 2 EDSA U-turn slots

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has reopened two U-turn slots along EDSA in Quezon City upon prodding by lawmakers and the city government.

The U-turn slots in front of Quezon City Academy and near Darrio Bridge in Balintawak were reopened to motorists yesterday following complaints raised during the congressional inquiry by the House committee on Metro Manila development earlier this week.

“We opened this up since it’s holiday season so the volume is really high. But we assure everyone that even if we open this up, we are not giving a favor to the few private vehicles passing through the area,” MMDA general manager Jojo Garcia explained to House reporters.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte welcomed the MMDA’s decision to reopen the U-turn slots, which she earlier requested after she received complaints from motorists.

“We made the request in response to the numerous complaints we received from motorists… This is a win-win solution for motorists who have been experiencing heavy traffic along EDSA due to congestion caused by the U-turn closures, and along nearby roads due to the spillover of vehicles. Patients and visitors going to the Quezon City General Hospital will benefit the most, and we thank the MMDA for their favorable response,” she said.

“While we fully support the national government’s transportation initiatives, particularly the EDSA Bus Carousel project, we cannot compromise the welfare of those using EDSA,” Belmonte added.

The MMDA made the move after its officials were grilled by lawmakers on the closure of U-turn slots on EDSA last October.