NLEX Corporation has geared up for the expected 10% surge in traffic volume during the Holy Week by putting 1,500 traffic, toll, and system personnel on full alert up to April 1. The company has reactivated its “Safe Trip Mo, Sagot Ko” (SMSK) motorist assistance program to provide support to travelers heading to the provinces during this period.
The surge in northbound traffic is anticipated to start from 10 am on March 27 until 2 pm on March 28. For vehicles heading back to Manila, high-volume traffic is expected from 4 pm to 11 pm on March 30 and from 2 pm on March 31 to 8 am on April 1.
To effectively manage the traffic, NLEX will deploy additional personnel in high-volume areas, including rest and refuel stations. Incident response teams, tow trucks, and fire trucks will be strategically stationed for prompt deployment. The company will also install additional traffic signage to enhance guidance for motorists.
During the SMSK period, road works and lane closures along NLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX Connector will be suspended, except for necessary safety repairs. The safety repair of the Canumay Overpass has been expedited to ensure completion before Holy Week and to secure the availability of all lanes under the bridge during this period. Free towing service to the nearest exit will be provided for class 1 vehicles during specific time frames.
NLEX has implemented decongestion projects in Meycauayan Northbound to alleviate the expected traffic surge. The new F. Raymundo Northbound Exit in Brgy. Pandayan will serve as an alternate route for class 1 vehicles traveling to the eastern portions of Meycauayan and Marilao. Additionally, an additional lane at the Meycauayan Northbound Exit ramp has been designated as a dedicated lane for Malhacan-bound vehicles, while the other lanes are assigned for those going to Iba/Camalig, providing extra space for the high volume of trucks heading to the industrial areas.
To further improve traffic flow, the SCTEX ramp from Tarlac to NLEX in Mabalacat, Pampanga, is being expanded. An additional lane for incoming vehicles from SCTEX going to NLEX is being constructed, with major works set to be completed before Holy Week.
NLEX Corporation advises motorists to acquire an Easytrip RFID for faster toll transactions and to ensure that they have sufficient load before travel to avoid inconvenience.
For any concerns, NLEX Corporation’s social media accounts (@NLEXexpressways) and hotline (02) 1-35000 will remain accessible 24/7. Regular traffic updates and live traffic streaming of key areas will be provided on Facebook to complement the on-ground efforts.