With the easing of travel restrictions and in anticipation of increased traffic volume this ‘Undas’ holidays, the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) will step up its operations as it implements the “Safe Trip Mo Sagot Ko” (SMSK) program along NLEX, SCTEX, CAVITEX, C5 LINK, and CALAX from October 29 to November 2, 2021.
In its 12th year running, the SMSK is the motorist assistance program of the MPTC meant to enhance all services along its expressway network for a safer and more comfortable journey.
Heightened alert has been ongoing as early as the 22nd of October with customer services and safety protocols boosted. With Filipinos expected to make advanced visits to their loved ones, a massive influx of motorists is projected before cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria close from October 29 to November 2 to minimize the risk of 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 MPTC President and CEO Rodrigo E. Franco.
With traffic growth of 10% 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.
Around 1,200 patrol crews, traffic marshals, security teams, and lane personnel will be deployed to ensure safety and provide immediate assistance to motorists. Emergency medical services and incident response teams will also be fielded at strategic areas of the expressways.
Due to the implementation of the Alert Level 3 in NCR, Cavite, and Laguna per the IATF’s latest resolution, average daily traffic in CAVITEX, C5 LINK, and CALAX is expected to increase around 11% to 15%. 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.
In addition, construction and lane closures along the mainline roads of all MPTC expressways will be suspended from October 27 until November 2 unless safety repairs are necessary. For those traveling with Class 1 or light vehicles with free 24-hour towing services to the nearest exit will be available from October 29, 6:00 a.m. to November 2, 6:00 a.m.