Ortigas Traffic Woes: Major Construction Projects Expected to Cause Long Delays Until 2026

For those living, working, or commuting through Ortigas, brace yourselves for years of increased traffic congestion. Two major construction projects in the Ortigas area are underway, and their timelines suggest disruptions could persist until 2026.

Roadworks in Ortigas Center

Road construction projects across Ortigas Center, the bustling business district of Pasig City, began on January 27, 2025. These projects involve excavation, open trenching, and the installation of manholes and conduits along several key streets.

The construction, led by Philippine Global Communications and the Ortigas Center Association, operates daily in two shifts: 9 AM to 4 PM and 9 PM to 4 AM. While work pauses during peak rush hours, traffic congestion remains unavoidable. The project is slated for completion on June 30, 2026.

Affected Roads in Ortigas Center:

1. San Miguel Avenue
2. ADB Avenue
3. Julia Vargas Avenue
4. Sapphire Road
5. Garnet Road
6. Opal Road
7. Ruby Road
8. F. Ortigas Jr. Road
9. Exchange Road
10. Lourdes Drive
11. Pearl Drive
12. Amethyst Street
13. Escriva Drive
14. Gold Loop
15. Jade Drive
16. Topaz Road

EDSA-Ortigas Busway Footbridge Construction

Adding to the congestion, a footbridge construction project along EDSA near Ortigas is also underway. This footbridge, funded by SM management and coordinated with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), will connect SM Megamall to the EDSA Busway’s Ortigas Station.

Construction began on January 23, 2025, and is expected to continue 24/7 until June 10, 2025. The project aims to provide safer and more convenient access for commuters but will temporarily impact sidewalks, the center island, and utilities in the construction zone.

Affected Area:

1. EDSA, from Doña Julia Vargas Avenue to Bank Drive (SM Megamall vicinity)

MMDA’s Traffic Management Plan

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) acknowledges the potential for severe traffic disruptions, especially with overlapping projects like the ongoing EDSA rehabilitation. MMDA General Manager Procopio Lipana assured the public of close monitoring and traffic management to ease the flow.

However, commuters and motorists are advised to plan their routes and schedules accordingly, as bottlenecks are expected to worsen in this already congested area.

What to Expect

While these infrastructure projects promise long-term benefits, such as improved accessibility and modernized utilities, they bring significant short-term challenges. Patience and strategic route planning will be crucial for navigating Ortigas in the coming years.

Whether you’re a daily commuter or occasional visitor, be prepared: Ortigas will be a traffic hotspot until 2026.