The Metropolitan Development Authority (MMDA) received criticisms on social media on Thursday, July 18, over the new Wheelchair Ramp in PhilAm Station, EDSA Busway in Quezon City for allegedly being too steep and unsafe for people who will be using it.
Legit ba na PWD ramp ito ng @MMDA? Kung legit itong pic, nasubukan na bang gamitin ito ng mga nasa MMDA nang naka-wheelchair? pic.twitter.com/HV4LFVPTid
— Prof. Sid 🌈 (@SidManila) July 16, 2024
In response to the viral photo, the MMDA released a statement and said that the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) has a "height restriction" followed by the MMDA, reason for not leveling the elevator with the footbridge.
The MMDA admitted that the ramp's design for those in wheelchairs is not perfect but the agency said that it is still a great help to senior citizens, pregnant women, and other persons with disabilities (PWDs).
"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," the statement reads.
"Kumpara sa nag-viral na photo, hindi ito masyadong matarik kung lalakaran," MMDA asserted.
The agency said they would assign personnel to assist PWDs accessing 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 MMDA said.
