MMDA to assist PWDs through steep ramp in EDSA Philam Station

MANILA – Persons with disability (PWD) will be assisted by personnel of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) when they pass through the Philam Station of the EDSA Busway, a new PWD ramp that became controversial due to its steep angle.

In a statement on Facebook on Wednesday, the MMDA said the steep angle of the ramp was due to height restrictions of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3).

"Magtatalaga ang MMDA ng mga kawani para umasiste sa mga PWDs kung mahirapan sila pumanhik ng rampa (The MMDA will place personnel to assist PWDs that will find it difficult to climb the ramp)," it said.

The MMDA said the ramp itself is not difficult to walk through but admitted it would be difficult for wheelchair users.

"Hindi ito perpektong disenyo lalo na sa mga naka wheelchair pero malaking tulong pa rin ito para sa mga senior citizens, buntis at ibang PWDs sa halip na umakyat gamit ang hagdan (This is not a perfect design for those in a wheelchair but this would still be helpful to senior citizens, pregnant women, and other PWDs that are unable to use regular stairs)," it said.

In addition, the MMDA said the elevator that was meant to bring PWDs to the footbridge to the Philam Station cannot be made level with the footbridge, necessitating the placement of the ramp.

"Inilagay ang rampa dahil sa limitadong espasyo at kung wala ito ay hindi maiilagay ang elevator sa istruktura para sa convenience ng mga commuters na sumasakay sa busway station (The ramp was placed due to the limited space and without it, we won't be able to install the elevator for the convenience of commuters)," it said.

According to the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 344 or the Accessibility Law, PWD ramps must be inclined at a 4.8-degree angle.

The Philam Station, however, ramp was found to be inclined at 14.5 degrees. (PNA)