MMDA: Elevated EDSA-Kamuning footbridge not meant for everyone

MANILA, Philippines— The Metro Manila Development Authority on Tuesday defended the design of the controversial elevated EDSA-Kamuning, Quezon City footbridge anew, saying it isn't meant for everyone.

MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia said the footbridge is not meant to cater all but only those who are "healthy" and those who are crossing the “deadly” EDSA highway.

Garcia also cited that the footbridge is not designed for persons with disabilities.

“Even PWDs, senior [citizens] cannot cross EDSA,” he cited in an interview with CNN’s The Source.

Last week, photos of the elevated footbridge circulated online with several online users criticizing its design. Several commented that the bridge is “too high or steep.”

READ: Unfinished EDSA footbridge already making commuters dizzy

Despite this, Garcia stood by the structure citing that it is meant to prevent the public from jaywalking.

Instead of criticizing the design, Garcia urged the public to appreciate the purpose of the footbridge which is for public’s safety.

“Let’s not look at the design. We need to know the purpose of this one,” Garcia said in mixed English and Filipino.

Garcia said people get into accidents while crossing the streets and there are even deaths and robbery cases. He added that even the employees of MMDA were getting robbed in the area when the footbridge hadn't been built.

“At least now the people have an option,” Garcia said.

The MMDA official added that he trusts the firm who constructed the footbridge, BF Corporation. Incidentally, BF Corp. is owned by former MMDA chairman Bayani Fernando.

He added that the traffic authority used metal as materials for the footbridge because it is easier to construct and is cheaper.

Garcia furthered the bridge only looked steep because it is not enclosed unlike those in train stations which he cited as “higher” structures.

The MMDA official said constructing elevators and escalators attached to the footbridge may resolve the issue on its steepness but they have no budget for it yet.

He said there is no plan to remove the controversial structure.