Metro Manila’s EDSA Busway Expansion To Ease Congestion With More Buses, Dalian Trains And New Stations In 2026

Published on January 1, 2026

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) in the Philippines has made substantial upgrades to the EDSA Busway, which is among the most trafficked transport corridors in Metro Manila. The government has launched a set of improvements, including the operation of extra buses and the addition of Dalian trains on the MRT 3, to combat the congestion problem and make the experience of the daily commuters more pleasant. The whole project is envisioned to reduce the traffic problem and also contribute to the overall public transport system enhancement in the area.

The EDSA Busway, which was introduced to streamline public transport along the major thoroughfare, has become a crucial lifeline for thousands of commuters daily. However, as the volume of passengers continues to rise, the DOTr has stepped up its efforts to ensure that the transport infrastructure can meet the growing demand.

Boosting Capacity: More Buses for Faster Commutes

One of the key components of the EDSA Busway expansion is the addition of more buses along the route. According to Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, the move is designed to reduce waiting times for passengers, particularly during peak hours. This development aims to provide commuters with a faster and more comfortable journey, especially for those who rely on the Busway to get to work or school each day.

Transportation Undersecretary Mark Steven Pastor highlighted that the deployment of additional buses is a proactive step to improve the overall experience for commuters. He also noted that this move is an essential part of the government’s ongoing efforts to modernise the transport system and enhance the quality of life for those using public transport.

Dalian Trains Enhance MRT 3 Capacity

In addition to the increased bus fleet, the DOTr has also expanded the capacity of the MRT 3 by deploying more Dalian trains. These trains, which are a significant upgrade to the MRT 3 system, are expected to help ease the congestion that many passengers face during rush hours. By adding more trains to the system, the government aims to make the daily commute less stressful and more efficient for those who rely on the MRT for travel across Metro Manila.

The Dalian trains, which have been praised for their reliability and capacity, will provide a smoother ride for passengers, reducing the frequency of overcrowded trains. The increased capacity of the MRT 3 is expected to have a positive impact on the overall efficiency of public transportation in Metro Manila.

New Stations to Improve Access and Convenience

As part of the EDSA Busway expansion, the DOTr is also constructing three new busway stations at key locations along the route. These stations, set to be completed by the end of 2026, will include facilities at Cubao, Magallanes, and the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX). These strategic additions aim to provide better access for commuters from various parts of Metro Manila, making it easier for passengers to transfer between different modes of transportation.

The new EDSA Busway Kamuning Station, scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2026, will further enhance accessibility for those using the Busway. This station will feature elevators and escalators, ensuring that people with disabilities, senior citizens, and pregnant women can access the station with ease. In addition, a new footbridge separate from the MRT 3 will be constructed to provide safer and more convenient access for commuters.

These infrastructure upgrades are expected to not only ease congestion but also improve the overall commuting experience for passengers, contributing to a more accessible and user-friendly transport system in Metro Manila.

Collaboration with Traffic Management Teams

To support these initiatives, the DOTr has also deployed a dedicated team to manage traffic flow during the ongoing rehabilitation works on EDSA. At least 80 personnel from the DOTr’s Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) have been stationed around Metro Manila to assist the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Philippine National Police in managing traffic. The presence of these personnel ensures that commuters are able to navigate the busy streets with as little disruption as possible while the construction projects are underway.

SAICT personnel have been stationed at the MMDA Metrobase to monitor the operations of the EDSA Busway and provide real-time updates on bus schedules and traffic conditions. This collaborative effort between government agencies aims to maintain smooth traffic flow, especially during peak periods, to reduce the impact of construction activities on commuters.

Looking Ahead: Continued Growth for EDSA Busway

The expansion of the EDSA Busway is just the beginning of a larger plan to transform Metro Manila’s public transportation system. With more buses, additional Dalian trains, and new stations on the horizon, the DOTr is committed to improving the daily commute for millions of Filipinos. These upgrades are part of the government’s broader vision to create a more sustainable and efficient public transportation system that can keep pace with the city’s rapid growth.

The construction of new busway stations and the incorporation of more buses and trains are ongoing, and the metro’s transport system is, therefore, getting an excellent rating for the future. The people who are dependent on the EDSA Busway and MRT 3 to reach their destinations are now offered these developments as a sneak peek of a more efficient and pleasant commuting experience.