The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) wants private vehicles carrying less than three passengers to be barred from EDSA during peak hours.

DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson said the government is “seriously considering” the proposed scheme to address the worsening traffic congestion in Metro Manila.

“Ang pino-propose namin, which is being seriously considered, ay during peak hours, 7 to 10 in the morning and 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. na sana three passengers or more ang pwedeng gumamit ng EDSA,” Singson told reporters after the DPWH budget hearing at the Senate on Tuesday.

However, Singson said the scheme could only be implemented once alternate routes are opened to accommodate the rest of the private motorists.

“Para magawa ‘yan, kailangan munang buksan ang mga alternate routes para yung mga pribadong sasakyan with less than three (passengers) ay meron din namang dadaan” he said.

Singson added once the 3-passenger rule is enforced, the no tint on windshield policy should also be implemented for traffic enforcers to check on the number of people inside vehicles.

But he clarified that they are considering other recommendations, including a proposed adjustment on working hours of both government and private offices.

Under said proposal, government office hours would be from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. while office hours for the private sector would be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Singson said.

He further explained that the measure would only be applicable in NCR, not nationwide.

“Kasi malaking bagay yun, instead na lahat nasa kalye ng 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at least yung nasa government, mag-umpisa sila ng 7 a.m., 6 a.m. pa lang gumagalaw na sila sa kalye tapos labas na sila ng 4 p.m. It might make sense but only in NCR, hindi naman kailangang nationwide,” he added.