Gov’t mulls deployment of double-decker buses on Edsa

Two government agencies are “seriously considering” the deployment of double-decker buses along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (Edsa) to address the “horrendous traffic congestion” in Metro Manila.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) said they were studying the move upon the suggestion of Bataan Rep. Enrique Garcia Jr.

HPG director Chief Supt. Arnold Gunnacao said it was “high time to use such type of two-level buses that could accommodate and ferry more passengers to their destinations compared with regular buses.”

Citing Garcia’s observation, Gunnacao said double-decker buses could also compensate for the limited road system and high volume of vehicular traffic in the metropolis.

In Metro Manila, double-decker buses are employed by SM Mall of Asia to shuttle customers to their destinations within the MOA complex in Pasay City.

Double-decker buses also operate within the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority complex.

MMDA and HPG said Garcia’s proposal would “eventually get rid of dilapidated buses plying along the stretch of Edsa as bus companies would be required to deploy double-decker units instead.”

MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino said double-decker buses were “space savers,” noting these vehicles could accommodate more passengers.

“Of the 4,936 franchised buses in Metro Manila, 3,421 are currently plying along Edsa. If double-deck buses are used, we not only lessen pollution but provide more road space as well without lessening seating space capacity,” he said. Nestor Corrales/RC