According to JICA, the Philippines loses ₱3.5 billion each day.According to JICA, the Philippines loses ₱3.5 billion each day.
Metro Manila, once a city designed for mobility, has transformed into a sprawling metropolis choked by traffic congestion. Dubbed “Carmageddon,” the worsening traffic situation has become a daily ordeal for millions of Filipinos. Epifanio delo Santos Avenue (EDSA), the country’s main thoroughfare, has turned into a parking lot. This is a stark contrast to its intended purpose.
The root of the problem lies in a car-centric approach to urban planning. Since the 1970s, the Philippines has prioritized road expansion over active transportation. Corruption has fueled this decision. There has been a disregard for efficient urban design. The result is a city where cars reign supreme, while pedestrians and cyclists are relegated to the sidelines.
The economic toll of traffic congestion is staggering. According to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Philippines loses 3.5 billion pesos (US $61.17 million) daily due to traffic gridlock. This loss, joined with rampant corruption, has crippled the nation’s economy.
The government continues to pour billions into new road projects. Ironically, a more sustainable and cost-effective solution lies in creating a walkable and bikeable city. This approach has been successfully implemented in cities like Paris and Jakarta, boosting local economies and improving public health.
By prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists, the Philippines can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and create safer, more livable communities. It’s time for the government to abandon its car-centric mindset and embrace a people-centered approach to urban planning. The future of Metro Manila depends on it.
