Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) expects traffic volume in its expressway network to grow by 10 to 15 percent this All Saints’ Day or “Undas.”
MPTC, which operates North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), Manila-Cavite Expressway (Cavitex), C5 Link and Cavite-Laguna Expressway (Calax), said it will intensify its operation with the implementation of the “Safe Trip Mo Sagot Ko” motorist assistance program that enhances all services along its expressway network for a safer and more comfortable journey.
MPTC said its operations teams have been on heightened alert as early as October 22 and have boosted customer services and safety protocols, as it expects the influx of motorists who will visit their departed loved ones before cemeteries, memorial parks and columbaria close from October 29 to November 2 to minimize the risk of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission.
“We remain committed to provide our motorists with ease of travel, ensure their safety, and assist them immediately this season as we also continue to observe COVID-19 protocols for the protection of our customers and employees,” said Rodrigo Franco, MPTC president and chief executive officer.
With traffic growth of 10 percent anticipated in NLEX-SCTEX, traffic management teams will adopt extended working hours to closely monitor and manage the expected high volume of vehicles in Balintawak, Mindanao, Karuhatan, Bocaue, San Simon, San Fernando, Tarlac and Tipo, MTPC said.
Due to the implementation of Alert Level 3 in the National Capital Region, Cavite and Laguna, the average daily traffic in Cavitex, C5 Link and Calax is expected to increase by around 11 to 15 percent, according to MPTC.
All customer service centers in the said expressways will be operational 24/7 and ambulant tellers will be ready to assist motorists in cash lanes, and toll personnel will be augmented to assist motorists in RFID lanes.
Construction and lane closures along the mainline road of all MPTC expressways will be suspended from October 27 until November 2, unless safety repairs are necessary. – Myla Iglesias
