MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has set a July 2026 deadline for the completion of Phase 1 of the massive EDSA rehabilitation project.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon announced on Monday, February 16, 2026, that the first phase—spanning from Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City to Orense Street in Makati City—is already nearly 50 percent complete.
Project Milestones and Timelines
The rehabilitation, which began on December 24, 2025, follows an accelerated eight-month schedule, significantly faster than the original two-year plan.
- Roadwork Completion: Main road sections without sidewalks are expected to be finished by May 31, 2026.
- Full Phase 1 Completion: The entire first phase, which includes the integration of modern, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, is targeted for July 2026.
- Work Progress: Following an initial 24-hour work period during the holiday season, construction has shifted to a nighttime schedule (10 p.m. to 4 a.m.) to minimize daytime traffic congestion.
Weekly Maintenance Schedule
To ensure continuous progress while keeping the thoroughfare operational:
- Monday to Friday: Asphalt overlay is performed lane-by-lane for both northbound and southbound traffic.
- Friday to Sunday: More intensive asphalt overlay and concrete reblocking are carried out, limited to one lane per direction.
Pedestrian and Commuter Benefits
A key feature of the “Phase 1” rehab is the focus on sidewalk reconstruction, aimed at improving pedestrian accessibility along the country’s most utilized highway. This coincides with the asphalt overlay of the dedicated EDSA Busway lanes, ensuring a smoother ride for public transport commuters.
Dizon emphasized that the project is on track despite the logistical challenges of working on a 24-kilometer arterial road. The DPWH is coordinating closely with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to manage traffic flow during the remaining months of the project.