MANILA — Fences surrounding a renovated section of the EDSA Busway collapsed due to strong winds on Wednesday afternoon.
According to workers in the area, no buses were traversing the section at the time of the incident, and no individuals, including the workers, were injured.
The fences were put in place to enclose some of the EDSA Busway’s ongoing renovation works.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reports that at approximately 1:10 p.m., the northbound bus lane was temporarily blocked to allow for the repair of the collapsed barriers.
Additionally, the southbound bus lane was temporarily closed.
According to officials, metal and plywood barriers installed around the construction area were knocked down after powerful gusts swept through the major thoroughfare. No injuries were immediately reported, but the incident briefly disrupted traffic flow as debris spilled onto portions of the busway and adjacent lanes.
Personnel from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) were immediately deployed to clear the area and secure the site. Commuters were advised to expect delays while repair and cleanup operations were underway.
“The strong winds compromised the temporary fencing around the renovated section,” an MMDA spokesperson said. “We are coordinating with contractors to reinstall sturdier barriers and to ensure the safety of motorists, commuters, and workers.”
Several busway users reported slowed operations after buses were forced to reduce speed as crews removed fallen panels and twisted metal frames from the roadway.
The DOTr said the damaged fences were part of temporary safety installations placed to separate the public from ongoing finishing works in the renovated portion of the busway. Engineers are now assessing whether additional reinforcements are needed, especially with more unstable weather expected in the coming days.
Authorities also reminded the public to remain cautious during periods of strong winds, as loose materials from construction sites and billboards pose potential hazards.
Further updates will be released once full inspections are completed and normal operations are restored.
