PH gov't considers EDSA Toll to push public transport use

MANILA, Philippines — The government is exploring a plan to charge four-wheeled vehicles a fee for using EDSA, supposedly to encourage the shift to public transport.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that an AI-powered metering system could be implemented once the Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan (CTMP) is in place—whenever that may be.

While other countries have congestion pricing, their public transport systems are already efficient. In contrast, Metro Manila commuters still endure long lines, packed trains, and unreliable buses, raising questions about whether this proposal prioritizes convenience over functionality.

Remulla insists that road use should be a "privilege, not a right," framing the initiative as a way to balance the fact that 17% of people occupy 80% of the city’s roads.

However, critics argue that the real issue is the lack of viable transport alternatives. Without immediate upgrades to trains, buses, and road networks, charging drivers of four-wheeled vehicles could just become another burden on taxpayers, with no real traffic relief in sight.

If reforms don’t come first, this scheme may simply turn EDSA into a toll road where people pay more—for the same old traffic jams.