Motorists traveling between Pulilan, Bulacan and San Fernando, Pampanga on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) will not pay toll fees beginning September 2, as the government and NLEX Corporation move to ease severe traffic congestion caused by flooding at Tulaoc Bridge in San Simon, Pampanga.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez confirmed the arrangement Wednesday, saying he coordinated directly with NLEX Corporation President Luis Reñon to implement the free tolling in compliance with the President’s directive. The waiver applies to all vehicles making the trip in both directions, and will stay in place until traffic conditions return to normal.
The regular one-way tolls for the stretch are ₱113 for Class 1 vehicles, ₱281 for Class 2, and ₱338 for Class 3—savings that directly cut travel costs for daily commuters, delivery fleets, business transport, and provincial bus services.
“This is to assist motorists and passengers severely affected by the heavy traffic. We are grateful for NLEX’s immediate response to our request,” Lopez said. He also thanked toll operators for continuing free passage for provincial buses and agricultural transport under the government’s UPLIFT program, supporting both commuters and farmers moving perishable goods.
Beyond free tolls, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) have ordered NLEX to distribute food and water, and set up portable restrooms for stranded motorists. The operator must also roll out a more effective early warning system: SMS alerts and public advisories three hours before expected heavy rain or flood-related closures, plus real-time updates via variable message signs and portable units to help drivers avoid bottlenecks and choose alternate routes.
Separately, TRB issued a Notice to Explain to NLEX on August 31, 2026, giving the operator three days to account for the flooding-triggered traffic jams and outline concrete steps to reduce flood risks and prevent repeat disruptions.
To address the flooding itself, Lopez directed the Philippine Coast Guard to deploy extra personnel to San Simon. DOTr is also coordinating closely with the DPWH, MMDA, and TRB on on-the-ground measures including sandbagging, continuous floodwater pumping, installation of flood barriers, and managed rerouting to keep traffic moving while long-term fixes are assessed.
