In a strategic move to address traffic congestion, SMC Infrastructure, the toll road arm of San Miguel Corporation (SMC), has opened the much-anticipated Maria Clara exit on Skyway Stage 3. The northbound exit, which became operational on 28 December 2024, offers a new, efficient route for motorists traveling to Quezon City, especially during peak hours.
The Maria Clara exit is expected to significantly reduce congestion at the Quezon Avenue exit, a major route frequently used by drivers heading to the heart of the city. The opening of the exit was timed to coincide with the expected surge in traffic during the long weekend leading up to the New Year celebrations.
“We’re opening the Maria Clara exit just in time for the last long weekend of the year, when many of our countrymen are traveling for New Year’s celebrations. This exit has been long-awaited by our motorists in Quezon City, who now have a convenient alternative,” said SMC chairman and CEO, Ramon S. Ang.
Ang emphasized the new exit will not result in any additional toll charge, with the toll rate being the same as that of the Quezon Avenue northbound exit. “We are grateful to the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) for their support and close coordination with our operations team to open the Maria Clara exit for the benefit of the motoring public,” he said.
The TRB issued an interim permit for the exit on 27 December, confirming that SMC had met the necessary requirements for operation. In its statement, the TRB highlighted the urgent need for the new exit to alleviate traffic congestion at the Quezon Avenue northbound exit.
“Considering the immediate need to provide an alternative route and reduce congestion at the Quezon Avenue northbound exit, the TRB grants an interim permit to operate the Maria Clara exit in the interest of the public,” the TRB said.
Ang assured motorists that SMC’s team is diligently working to complete the remaining requirements as specified by the TRB. In the meantime, additional road safety personnel and patrollers will be deployed to assist drivers using the new exit.
Skyway Stage 3, which connects Makati’s Gil Puyat Avenue to Balintawak in Quezon City, offers seamless access to the North Luzon Expressway, further enhancing connectivity across Metro Manila. With the opening of the Maria Clara exit, SMC Infrastructure continues to improve the flow of traffic, especially during the busy holiday season.
