MMDA admits flaws in wheelchair ramp at EDSA Busway’s Philam QC station

July 18, 2024 , 03:38 PM

(July 18, 2024) – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) acknowledged flaws in the design of the wheelchair ramp at the EDSA Busway in Philam, Quezon City. Intended for persons with disabilities (PWDs), the ramp has drawn criticism for being steep and dangerous.

MMDA Acting Chairman Romando Artes explained that space and height limitations influenced the ramp’s design. He said that MRT-3 height restrictions prevented the alignment of the elevator with the footbridge at Philam Station.

“We will admit na hindi siya perpektong disenyo, pero hindi siya mali given the limited space sa height at laki ng lugar ito lang yung pwede talagang malagay,” he said.

Artes also apologized to the public if they thought the design was not well thought out. However, he said this is not the case with other busway stations, as the space at the Philam Quezon City Busway Station is limited.

“Alam namin na hindi ideal ‘yung rampa, in fact, kung makikita niyo, lima ‘yung nilagyan namin ng lift marami naman hindi ganyan kasi ina-allow ng espasyo na hndi siya maging matarik like Balintawak, EDSA, Bagong Barrio,” he added.

To address these concerns, the MMDA has consulted with an architectural firm that volunteered to improve the design for free. Artes assured that adjustments will be made to enhance accessibility.

On the other hand, Sen. Grace Poe also criticized the ramp’s design, saying that instead of helping PWDs who take the bus, this MMDA ramp on the EDSA Busway poses a life-threatening risk.

She also said that the Philippines lacks PWD-friendly facilities, but this is no excuse for poorly thought-out projects. Poe stressed the need for the ramp to be fixed immediately before an accident occurs.

“It’s exasperating to see millions in taxpayers’ money spent on projects like this that endangers safety and life. Government agencies must do things right in using public funds, otherwise, we are only wasting money and not serving the sectors who need help,” she said.

(PB)

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