NLEX Corp. on Wednesday announced the formal opening of the Candaba 3rd Viaduct, a critical five-kilometer bridge linking Pulilan in Bulacan to Apalit in Pampanga, beginning in December, enhancing connectivity and mobility across Central and Northern Luzon.
The Candaba 3rd Viaduct is part of NLEX’s broader initiative to ease traffic congestion and improve infrastructure. Construction of the bridge began in the third quarter of 2023, with an initial timeline of 22 months. However, thanks to a strong partnership with Leighton Contractors (Asia) Limited, the project is set to be completed four months ahead of schedule.
“We are grateful for the support of both our public and private partners. This project wouldn’t have been possible without them,” NLEX president and general manager J. Luigi L. Bautista said. “We are also pleased to share a glimpse of this vital infrastructure with our valued stakeholders.”
The project is divided into two sections. The Pulilan section (Zone 1) opened to the public in August 2024, while the Apalit section (Zone 2) was completed in October. When fully operational, the bridge will alleviate traffic bottlenecks and facilitate smoother travel for commuters and businesses, contributing to regional socio-economic growth.
Bautista emphasized the resilience of the project team, which faced significant challenges, including multiple typhoons during construction. “Despite these obstacles, we are committed to delivering this project before the Christmas holiday rush,” he said.
The Candaba 3rd Viaduct is poised to become a key artery of the NLEX network, enhancing mobility between Metro Manila, Central and Northern Luzon, and supporting the region’s tourism, trade, and commerce sectors.
NLEX Corporation is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), the toll road arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC).
