'THE EDSA Decongestion Program is in full swing. By 2022, every city in Metro Manila will only be 20 to 30 minutes away.' This statement was released in June 2021 by the then-DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) secretary during the previous administration. I was looking forward to the day that standstill traffic will be a thing of the past and that people can go anywhere they want to without heavy traffic dominating the discussion. As I reflect on the months that have passed, I have observed evident improvements during recent train rides and a long walk along EDSA Greenhills. To give credit where it is due, waiting times at MRT (Metro Rail Transit) stations have been significantly reduced and breakdowns are now rare in between. A full lane for a dedicated busway along EDSA has been erected and more roads are now starting to incorporate bicycle-exclusive lanes. This is a step in the right direction because people are now afforded more choices to get around.

But with all these new routes and service improvements, has our transportation policy prioritized commuters or car owners? Does the current carrying capacity for public transit meet existing demand and reduce car-dependency? What areas can be further improved on to enhance our people's quality of life?