MMDA to inaugurate ‘stairway to heaven’

THE so-called “stairway to heaven” footbridge along Edsa and

will be inaugurated as scheduled on Nov. 15, 2018 despite criticisms from the public, according to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

Michael Salalima, chief of staff of MMDA General Man-

and critics do not understand why the footbridge is higher than the other footbridges built by the agency.

“We wouldn’t classify it as ‘stairway to heaven,’ rather it’s a safer alternative stairway. That footbridge is there to primarily address those who risk their lives crossing the road,” Salalima told

Netizens dubbed the bridge “Stairway to Heaven” because it is too high. Those who use it have to climb 75 steps to cross to the other side.

The stairway has a 45-degree angle, thus critics said using it is inadvisable for persons with disabilities, elderly or pregnant women.

Salalima defended the bizarre features of the P10 - m i l l i o n f o o t b r i d g e. He said it only looks very steep because of the 10-meter clearance from the wiring of the Metro Rail Transit.

“No amount of negative perceptions would equal a life that can be saved especially that there’s been accidents and a loss of life that’s been experienced there,” he said