What is Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA)?
Historical Background
Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, commonly known as EDSA, is a vital artery in Metro Manila, stretching approximately 23.8 kilometers and connecting key cities such as Caloocan, Quezon City, San Juan, Mandaluyong, Makati, and Pasay. Originally constructed in the late 1930s and completed in 1940, it was first known as the North and South Circumferential Road. During the American occupation, it was renamed Highway 54, and in 1959, it received its current name in honor of the Filipino historian and scholar Epifanio de los Santos.
Geographic Stretch and Key Cities
EDSA serves as a major thoroughfare, facilitating the movement of over 2.34 million vehicles daily. Its design includes multiple interchanges and intersections that connect with other significant roads and expressways.
How is EDSA’s Traffic Managed?
Major Interchanges and Connections
Notable interchanges include the Balintawak Interchange, linking EDSA to the North Luzon Expressway, and the Magallanes Interchange, connecting it to the South Luzon Expressway. These interchanges are crucial for traffic distribution and provide access to various parts of Metro Manila and beyond.
Daily Traffic Volume and Vehicle Flow
EDSA’s complex network of roads aids in the management of the city’s heavy traffic load, although it often results in significant congestion due to the high volume of daily commuters.
How has Public Transportation Improved on EDSA?
Introduction of the EDSA Carousel
 |
Source: Rappler
In response to the growing transportation needs and to alleviate congestion, the EDSA Carousel bus rapid transit system was introduced in 2020. This system utilizes a dedicated median lane along EDSA, ensuring a more efficient flow of buses and reducing travel time for commuters.
Impact on Commuter Experience
As of January 31, 2025, the EDSA Carousel operates 21 bus stops, serving thousands of passengers daily, thereby enhancing the public transport experience along this busy corridor.
Impact on Business and Industry
EDSA Carousel has not only improved public transportation but has also significantly impacted local businesses, particularly in the logistics and delivery service industries. The dedicated median lane used by the Carousel helps streamline public transport flow, which, in turn, influences traffic patterns and potentially reduces overall road congestion.
Impact on Delivery Service Providers
For delivery companies like Lalamove, Transportify, and other key players in the logistics sector, the improved traffic conditions along EDSA could lead to more efficient operations. These companies rely heavily on timely deliveries, and reduced congestion can help decrease delivery times, increase the number of deliveries a driver can make per day, and potentially reduce operational costs.
Why is EDSA Culturally Significant?
The EDSA Shrine: Symbol of Peace
The EDSA Shrine, officially known as the Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, stands at the intersection of EDSA and Ortigas Avenue. Erected to commemorate the peaceful EDSA People Power Revolution of 1986, the shrine symbolizes the unity and resilience of the Filipino people. However, multiple sites along EDSA also serve as historical reminders of the event, each with its unique symbolism:
| SITE | SIGNIFICANCE |
|---|---|
| EDSA Shrine | Built in 1989, this religious monument marks the exact site where Filipinos gathered in prayer and protest. Designed by Francisco Mañosa, it features a bronze image of the Blessed Virgin Mary by sculptor Virginia Ty-Navarro. |
| People Power Monument | Located near Camp Aguinaldo, this monument features sculptures of revolutionaries, nuns, and civilians, led by a towering figure holding a Philippine flag. It was created by artist Eduardo Castrillo in 1993. |
| Camp Crame & Camp Aguinaldo | These military camps played key roles in the EDSA People Power Revolution. Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile and General Fidel Ramos defected here, rallying forces against the Marcos regime. |
| Ortigas-EDSA Intersection | One of the main gathering points where over 2 million Filipinos formed a human barricade to block military tanks. |
The EDSA People Power Revolution Commemoration
EDSA Shrine is one of the most iconic landmarks of the EDSA People Power Revolution, strategically positioned at the EDSA-Ortigas intersection. It was here that people from all walks of life—nuns, students, workers, and even celebrities—gathered in defiance of the dictatorship. Designed by Architect Francisco Mañosa, it features a bronze sculpture of the Blessed Virgin Mary by artist Virginia Ty-Navarro, serving as a beacon of hope and peace amidst the bustling metropolis.
🚦 Accessibility:
- Nearest MRT Station: Ortigas Station (MRT-3)
- Buses: EDSA Carousel, UV Express
- Nearby Landmarks: Robinsons Galleria, POEA Office, Poveda School
The shrine remains a center for annual People Power celebrations, where Filipinos pay tribute to the heroes of 1986.
What Challenges does EDSA Face Today?
Traffic Congestion Issues
Despite its infrastructural importance, EDSA faces significant challenges such as chronic traffic congestion that impacts millions daily.
Pollution and Environmental Concerns
Efforts to manage pollution levels include the enhancement of public transport systems and the promotion of cleaner vehicle technologies.
Ongoing Improvements and Development Initiatives
Ongoing plans aim to evolve EDSA’s infrastructure and transportation systems to meet the demands of a growing urban population, ensuring that EDSA remains a vital lifeline for Metro Manila.
The Role of EDSA in Philippine Democracy Today
 |
Source: Philstar.com
EDSA is more than just a major highway; it is a living monument of the Filipino people’s fight for democracy. Every year, February 25 is celebrated as the EDSA People Power Anniversary, with ceremonies held at the People Power Monument and EDSA Shrine.
However, modern discussions surrounding EDSA have raised questions about how to properly commemorate the EDSA People Power Revolution. Some argue that traffic congestion and urbanization have overshadowed its historical significance. Others emphasize that younger generations should be educated about its importance to prevent history from being forgotten.
EDSA: A Road That Shaped a Nation
While EDSA remains one of Metro Manila’s busiest roads, its legacy as the birthplace of modern Philippine democracy cannot be ignored. The EDSA People Power Revolution Memorial, the People Power Monument, and the EDSA Shrine stand as lasting symbols of Filipino courage, unity, and hope.
🚗 Planning to visit the EDSA People Power Revolution Memorial?
- The best time to visit is during People Power Day (February 25), when commemorative events are held.
- Visitors can take the MRT-3 or buses along the EDSA Carousel to reach the site.
