DPWH exec blames MMDA for EDSA repair delays

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is to blame for the delays in the EDSA reblocking project, a Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) official said yesterday.

DPWH Metro Manila director Rey Tagudando said the MMDA’s delayed issuance of permits has set back the work schedule of the DPWH on the concrete reblocking of sections of EDSA, such as from Roxas Boulevard in Pasay to Jorge Vargas Avenue in Mandaluyong and Trinoma Mall in Quezon City to Monumento, Caloocan.

The concrete reblocking of other parts of EDSA is going smoothly, he said.

Tagundado said their work program called for workers to complete 3,000 square meters a week. The highest they hit was 2,154 square meters, he added.

“We only hit 1,000-plus this week,” he told The STAR.

With all the delays, he said the schedule of the DPWH to finish the concrete reblocking by July will be moved to September, which may be further delayed by inclement weather.

The September completion target date, he said, is based on the assumption that the DPWH can work every weekend.