The government will “expand and extend” the EDSA bus carousel routes and prioritize the promotion of active modes of transportation to ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced in a short video posted on Facebook on Sunday.

Included in the latest transportation initiatives are the refurbishment of Pasig River ferry stations and the construction of bridges across the river.

“To address traffic congestion in Metro Manila, we will expand and extend routes for EDSA bus carousel; refurbishing the Pasig River stations; and constructing bridges across the Pasig River,” Marcos said.

“We will prioritize active transportation facilities including safe walkways and secured bike lanes to promote healthier and more sustainable modes of travel,” he added.

In another Facebook video posted Saturday morning, Marcos said he issued Executive Order No. (EO) 56, which regulates the use of protocol license plates, and Administrative Order No. 18, prohibiting government officials and personnel from using sirens, blinkers, and similar signaling devices, after “carefully considering” the public’s suggestions on addressing the traffic concerns.

Marcos, in another Facebook video posted Saturday evening, said the government is also fast-tracking the construction of transportation infrastructure projects by extending construction hours and implementing round-the-clock emergency repairs.

The announcement of a series of traffic measures followed the Bagong Pilipinas Town Hall Meeting on Traffic Concerns last April 10 where concerned national government agencies, local governments, transport groups, and other stakeholders tackled how to unify solutions to ease traffic congestion problems in our country, particularly in the metropolis.

The president also encouraged citizen participation through the comment section of the town hall meeting’s social media live feed. (PNA)