The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has officially opposed plans to allow carpooling on the EDSA Busway, emphasizing that the lane was designed to move people—not private vehicles.

In a statement, Secretary Giovanni "Banoy" Lopez said the busway carries up to 300,000 passengers daily, providing fast and uninterrupted bus service that could be compromised if private cars are allowed, even for carpooling.

Lopez acknowledged the efforts of MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III to address Metro Manila’s traffic congestion but stressed that government transport policy must remain commuter-focused and supportive of mass transit rather than car-centric.

“The effectiveness of the EDSA Busway for the majority is reason enough to keep it exclusive to buses and commuters,” he said.

The DOTr also expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with the MMDA, other agencies, and civil society groups to explore innovative and holistic solutions to traffic challenges.