MMDA to retain new traffic scheme along Quezon Ave after dry run showed faster travel time

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said Friday it would continue implementing its traffic management scheme at the Quezon Avenue-Araneta Avenue intersection after a dry run showed faster travel times and improved vehicle speeds in the area. The move means the agency is pushing to keep and refine the traffic adjustments introduced in the corridor, a development that could affect motorists regularly passing through C-3 Road and Quezon Avenue. MMDA said its travel time and speed runs showed measurable improvements along key stretches of C-3 Road and Quezon Avenue. Along the northbound section of C-3 Road between Maria Clara Street and Kaliraya Street, travel time dropped to 4 minutes and 42 seconds on March 11, 2026 from 8 minutes and 21 seconds on Jan. 21, or a 43.71-percent reduction. Average speed on the same segment rose to 11.39 kilometers per hour from 6.41 kph, or a 77.69-percent improvement. On the southbound side, travel time fell to 3 minutes and 1 second from 7 minutes and 29 seconds, equivalent to a 59.69-percent reduction, while average speed increased to 17.71 kph from 7.15 kph, or a 147.69-percent improvement. MMDA also reported smoother traffic flow on Quezon Avenue between Scout Chuatoco and Banawe Street. Travel time on the westbound side dropped to 2 minutes and 19 seconds on March 11 from 4 minutes and 19 seconds on February 11, equivalent to a 46.33-percent reduction. On the eastbound side, travel time went down to 1 minute and 38 seconds from 3 minutes and 12 seconds, while average speed increased to 41.76 kph from 21.28 kph, or a 96.24-percent improvement. Following the results, MMDA said it was recommending the continuation and refinement of the traffic scheme, including turning rules, road markings, signages, and possible replication at other major intersections in Metro Manila. The dry run began on Feb. 23.