MMDA: Provincial buses can now pick up passengers along EDSA

MANILA, Philippines - President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Friday dropped by the bustling Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) to witness the opening of 15 loading and unloading station for provincial buses. A radio report quoted Metro Manila Development Authority chairman Bayani Fernando as presenting to President Arroyo the 15 loading spots, which had been installed along the stretch of EDSA from Pasay City to Caloocan City. Mrs Arroyo lauded the MMDA for creating the bus stops for provincial buses, saying that the move would not only alleviate traffic congestion in the busy thoroughfare but also help boost the transport industry in general. President Arroyo said that allowing provincial buses to take in passengers outside terminals – a move previously banned by the MMDA – could put an end to “guerilla practice." Prior to the creation of the 15 loading and unloading areas, passengers are only allowed to board provincial buses at the terminals lined up along EDSA. During her visit, Mrs Arroyo also witnessed the official opening of the pink pedestrian foot bridge set up on the intersection of Quezon Avenue and EDSA in Quezon City. The President also took the opportunity to thank the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and various transport groups for reaching an agreement slashing fare prices for buses, jeepneys, and taxis. On Wednesday, the LTFRB said that beginning December 15, taxi drivers would take away the 10 add-on rate from their fare, while jeepney and regular bus fares would go down by P0.50. The same group that sought for the rollback in jeepneys, buses, and taxi, has already urged the LTFRB on Friday to also move for the fare reduction in Asian utility vehicles (AUV) like FX taxis, shuttles, and vehicles for hire. - Mark Merueñas, GMANews.TV