MMDA: Contractor to fund new solutions for viral wheelchair ramp

According to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, they are considering installing a “wheelchair platform” along the viral wheelchair ramp connected to a footbridge at an Edsa busway station in Quezon City. However, this might take too much space and might impede the entire flow of the ramp. (Photo courtesy of Luisa Cabato)

MANILA, Philippines — The contractor of the viral wheelchair ramp connected to a footbridge at an Edsa busway station in Quezon City will implement an alternative solution to address public safety concerns, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) acting chairman Don Artes said on Friday.

He also noted that the costs will be fully shouldered by the contractor, and the government will not spend any funds on it.

READ: Drawing flak for steep Edsa ramp, MMDA personnel to assist PWDs

“Mayroon na po kaming mga alternatibo na mga gagawin…Unang-una po dyan ‘yung paglalagay ng ‘wheelchair platform’ kung saan pwedeng isakay ‘yung wheelchair diyan po sa platform na ‘yan,” said Artes in a press conference.

(We already have some alternatives that we will implement. First is the installation of a wheelchair platform that wheelchair users can use.)

However, he admitted that a wheelchair platform along the ramp would take up too much space and might impede the entire flow of the ramp.

The MMDA said it is likely to put a “wheelchair lift” on the footbridge where wheelchair users will be lifted and lowered to ground level. (Photo courtesy of Luisa Cabato)

Another option that the MMDA is considering is installing a wheelchair lift to directly transport wheelchair users from ground level to the footbridge and vice versa.

“‘Yung isa pa naming tinitignan ay ‘yung ‘wheelchair lift.’ More likely ito ‘yung ii-implement natin diyan. From the footbridge isasakay po ‘yung naka wheelchair at ibababa na po siya doon sa ground level,” said Artes.

(Another option we are considering is a wheelchair lift. This is more likely what we will implement. From the footbridge, the wheelchair user can be lifted or lowered to ground level.)

When asked how long it would take for these to be operational, Artes said they might be ready in a month.

READ: MMDA chief defends ramp design at Edsa busway station: It’s not wrong

The viral wheelchair ramp drew criticisms from netizens as it seemed too steep and dangerous for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The MMDA said in a statement on Thursday that it would deploy personnel to assist PWDs who will have difficulty using the ramp.