MMDA Now Considering Window Hours for Provincial Buses on EDSA

After stating that it will stand firm behind the proposed provincial bus ban on EDSA despite the election of new mayors in the Metro, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is sort of taking back its word in a way by saying it is now considering window hours for provincial buses on EDSA.

MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia discussed the possibility of allowing provincial buses to pass through EDSA from 11:00 PM until 4:00 AM, but they can only load and unload passengers at their respective bus depots.

Garcia also said that the agency is now unsure on whether the ban will push through this June, as it is still waiting for the go-signal from the Department of Tranportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

According to Garcia, both government agencies are still busy drafting fare matrix guidelines and franchise routes of provincial buses.

Garcia added that his agency is scheduled to meet with representatives from the DOTr, LTFRB and Metro Manila mayors to review the proposed scheme.

Should it be deemed that the MMDA is ill-prepared to implement the bus ban, Garcia said that it will forgo its implementation.

"Definitely, we will not implement the policy if we are not ready," Garcia said.