EDSA isn't just a road

EDSA was in most conversations on social media, traditional media and over lunch and dinner for many weeks.

- PINKY CONCHA COLMENARES

The thought — and reality — of clos-ing, or limiting the road space of EDSA presented a crisis. Although EDSA’s rehabilitation, which includes that of the Guadalupe Bridge, had been announced a year ago, it became a hot topic as the starting date of June 13 came nearer.

But when President Marcos an-nounced the suspension—and sub-stantial downsizing—of the long-awaited rehabilitation of EDSA, a sigh of relief sounded, as if that will stop the eventual rehabilitation of this major thoroughfare.

The President was not merely postponing a public works project, he was touching on something much deeper and far more symbolic in the lives of Metro Manila residents. EDSA isn't just the capital's busiest thoroughfare — it's a physical and cultural artery. It moves our bodies, reflects our bad habits, and houses our histories.

Originally set to begin on June 13, the P8.7-billion rehabilitation plan was to be the first major overhaul of EDSA since the 1980s. The initial project would replace its aging pave-ment with new concrete and asphalt, improve pedestrian infrastructure, and upgrade drainage systems — measures long overdue for a highway that bears the daily load of more than 400,000 vehicles and millions of commuters.