As the Holy Week approaches, NLEX Corporation stands prepared to manage the expected surge in traffic volume with a projected increase of 10% from March 22 to April 1. With a dedicated workforce of 1,500 traffic, toll, and system personnel, NLEX is gearing up to reactivate its “Safe Trip Mo, Sagot Ko” (SMSK) motorist assistance program, ensuring motorists receive necessary support as they embark on journeys to provinces during this period. Advisories are also in place for motorists traveling north via NLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX Connector to avoid peak hours for a smoother expressway experience.
J. Luigi L. Bautista, President and General Manager of NLEX Corporation, emphasized the importance of trip planning and traveling during non-peak times to mitigate potential delays caused by the influx of travelers.
Anticipating the surge in northbound travelers, particularly from 10 am on March 27 to 2 pm on March 28, and high-volume traffic for Manila-bound vehicles from 4 pm to 11 pm on March 30 and from 2 pm on March 31 to 8 am on April 1, NLEX is strategically deploying additional personnel in key areas along its expressways. Incident response teams, tow trucks, and fire trucks will be on standby for prompt deployment, with enhanced traffic signage to guide motorists effectively.
During the SMSK period, road works and lane closures along NLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX Connector will be suspended, except for essential safety repairs. Notably, the Canumay Overpass safety repair was expedited to ensure completion before Holy Week, securing the availability of all lanes under the bridge during this period. Additionally, free towing services will be provided to class 1 vehicles during specified dates.
In a bid to alleviate traffic congestion, NLEX has implemented decongestion projects in Meycauayan Northbound, including the construction of the F. Raymundo Northbound Exit in Brgy. Pandayan, providing alternate routes for class 1 vehicles. Moreover, additional lanes and dedicated routes have been established to accommodate the expected surge in traffic, particularly for trucks heading to industrial areas.
Expansion works on the SCTEX ramp from Tarlac to NLEX in Mabalacat, Pampanga, are also underway to add an extra lane for incoming vehicles, with major works slated for completion before Holy Week to improve traffic flow during peak hours.
Bautista expressed optimism that these decongestion projects, coupled with other measures, will contribute to a more manageable traffic flow during Holy Week. However, he urged motorists to exercise patience, cooperation, and discipline on the roads, emphasizing the importance of vehicle maintenance, observing traffic regulations, and ensuring adequate load on Easytrip RFID for seamless toll transactions.
To facilitate communication and provide real-time updates, NLEX Corporation’s social media accounts and hotline will remain accessible 24/7 for any concerns, alongside regular traffic updates and live streaming of key areas on Facebook. As travelers gear up for Holy Week journeys, NLEX Corporation remains committed to ensuring a safe and efficient travel experience for all motorists.
