MMDA implements bus segregation scheme on EDSA

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Tuesday started the implementation of the bus segregation scheme along EDSA.

Under the scheme, the MMDA will segregate bus stops along EDSA by making them alternately exclusive to “A,” “B” and “C” buses.

“A” buses are those that ply the EDSA-Alabang route and will only stop to pick-up or unload passengers at “A” bus stops while “B” buses are those that ply the EDSA-Baclaran route and will only stop at “B” bus stops. “C” buses meanwhile can stop in all bus stops.

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino has advised commuters to check first the markings on the bus before they board.

The MMDA has implemented the scheme as part of its efforts to decongest vehicular traffic along EDSA.

The MMDA has marked the following bus stops as “A” bus stops: (Southbound) Ermin Garcia, Arayat Cubao, VV Soliven, Connecticut, Shaw Starmall, Guadalupe, Buendia Ave., Mantrade; (Northbound) Ermin Garcia, Cubao Farmers, Boni Serrano, SM Megamall, Shaw Blvd., Guadalupe, Buendia Ave. and Magallanes.

“B” bus stops are: (Southbound) Kamuning, Monte de Piedad, Main Ave., POEA Ortigas, Pioneer/Boni, Estrella and Ayala Ave. (Northbound) Baliwag/5Star, Main Ave., Ortigas Ave., SM Megamall, Pioneer/Boni, Estrella and Ayala Ave.

According to the MMDA,  more than 3,600 city buses ply EDSA on a daily basis, while another 7,368 provincial buses whose companies operate terminals in the metropolis also use the same highway.

Metro buses are only allowed to use the two rightmost lanes of EDSA, commonly called the yellow lanes.

“With this bus stop segregation scheme, bus congestion in the yellow lane as well as accidents will hopefully be reduced. There won't be a reason for all buses to fight over one bus stop anymore," Tolentino said.