Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) has expressed its readiness to open the NLEX-SLEX Connector Road toll-free to the public in support of easing traffic during the major EDSA rehabilitation project scheduled to start next month.
MPTC chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan made the announcement Tuesday, following San Miguel Corp.’s (SMC) initiative to waive tolls on certain sections of Skyway Stage 3 amid the anticipated two-year roadworks on EDSA.
“I think we also have a Connector. Maybe we should do the same thing,” Pangilinan said, citing SMC’s move as a “good lead” worth emulating to support motorists facing traffic disruptions.
The 7.7-kilometer NLEX-SLEX Connector Road links Caloocan’s C-3 to Sta. Mesa’s Skyway Stage 3, serving as a vital corporate and commercial artery for logistics, commuters, and private motorists alike. The road’s potential toll-free access represents a major contribution to the broader “bayanihan” spirit encouraged by the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
The DOTr earlier confirmed that parts of Skyway Stage 3 would be toll-free to decongest EDSA during its reconstruction. Acknowledging the private sector’s sacrifices, it added that the government is reviewing ways to support SMC financially, possibly through extending its concession.
“This bayanihan opportunity with the private sector will help ease the burden on motorists while we work to make EDSA better, safer, and more convenient for everyone,” the DOTr said.
