In a strategic shift, newly appointed transportation secretary Vince Dizon on Tuesday announced a delay in the privatization of the EDSA Busway system’s operations and maintenance (O&M), pushing back the process to prioritize the rehabilitation of the system’s stations. This adjustment marks a significant change from the original plan set by former transport chief Jaime Bautista, who previously outlined a privatization timeline for 2025.
In a news briefing, Dizon said the Department of Transportation (DOTr) would first focus on enhancing the busway stations before ceding operations to a private concessionaire. He revealed plans to bid out contracts for station upgrades starting in May, with construction to begin in the second half this year. The target completion for station improvements is set for early 2026.
“The budget for the station improvements has already been allocated. We will use SM North Edsa and SM Megamall as models to replicate across all 21 remaining stations,” Dizon said. The upgrades will enhance the accessibility and functionality of the existing stations to meet growing demand.
The decision to delay privatization reflects the government’s approach to strengthening infrastructure before involving the private sector in its long-term operations. Dizon also proposed using the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for the O&M once the necessary infrastructure improvements are completed.
While the revised timeline sets the privatization process back, Dizon remains confident that the EDSA Busway will be transformed into a modern, high-capacity system by 2026 or 2027, aligning with the administration’s transport modernization goals. The EDSA Busway Project aims to improve the efficiency and capacity of the current system, enhancing service reliability along one of the busiest transport corridors in the National Capital Region.
The revised schedule and focus on infrastructure upgrades have significant transport policy implications, potentially setting a precedent for future public-private collaborations in the sector. With these changes, Dizon’s approach signals a more methodical and long-term strategy for the EDSA Busway’s evolution.
