SMC SALEX has confirmed all tree-related activities for its planned elevated expressway in Manila follow strict guidelines approved by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), addressing public concerns about vegetation along Quirino Avenue. These steps are part of pre-construction works for the 3.97-kilometer Manila segment of the Southern Access Link Expressway, which will traverse Quirino Avenue, San Marcelino Street, and Roxas Boulevard. The chosen route was deemed the most feasible option after reviewing multiple designs, balancing engineering requirements with the goal of minimizing pcommunity displacement and disruption to existing infrastructure.
All clearing activities are covered by official permits issued following a full technical assessment and tree inventory. Of the trees within the project path, 94 were identified as suitable for relocation through earth-balling, with over 30 already transferred to other locations in Manila. Relocation is done only when technically possible; the method is not viable in areas with limited space, underground utilities, or for tree species that do not survive transplantation well. The company is currently conducting a detailed audit of all affected trees—recording species, health, and treatment—to fully document impacts and find further ways to reduce environmental effects.
As part of its regulatory obligations, SMC SALEX will provide 50,700 replacement seedlings, including native forest trees and fruit-bearing varieties, to be planted in sites designated by DENR-NCR and cared for over a mandatory three-year period. The firm is also coordinating with agencies to expand these efforts, exploring options such as planting larger saplings, supporting community greening projects, and establishing shaded areas. These measures form part of the project’s Environmental Compliance Certificate requirements, covering both construction-phase protection and long-term urban greening after completion.
Spanning 40.65 kilometers in total, the SALEX network aims to provide a direct route for vehicles and cargo across Metro Manila. It is designed to decongest busy roads including EDSA, Roxas Boulevard, Quirino Avenue, and the South Luzon Expressway, while improving connections between Manila, Bulacan, R-10, the Skyway System, and key port areas.
This development highlights how major Philippine infrastructure projects are now required to integrate environmental protection alongside development. The strict safeguards, relocation efforts, and large-scale replacement planting reflect stronger enforcement of environmental laws, ensuring that road expansion supports both economic mobility and urban greening goals. For communities in Metro Manila and nearby provinces like Bulacan, it demonstrates that improved transport access can be achieved while working to preserve and restore the city’s green spaces.
