Early completion of NLEX-SLEX link to boost PH economy, says urban dev’t advocate

MANILA, Philippines — An urban development advocate has joined calls for the early completion of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) connector, sharing the belief that it would substantially boost the country’s economy.

“This tollway, when completed, will surely make our people’s travel safe and comfortable – and would increase trade and commerce between and among provinces north and south of Manila,” said former Customs examiner Rafael dela Torre in a statement.

According to him, the NLEX-SLEX connector should be done by February 2023 although the project’s original completion target was within this year.

FILE PHOTO: NLEX-SLEX Connector Road. Photo from DPWH

Dela Torre described the NLEX-SLEX connector as a four-lane, elevated tollway that connects NLEX (Caloocan City, Santa Mesa in Manila) to Skyway Stage 3 and eventually, SLEX.

The urban development said the NLEX-SLEX connector is anticipated to improve travel and trade between the north and south of Metro Manila.

“It will also decongest traffic in Metro Manila, because it will give cargo-carrying trucks a round-the-clock alternative route, not to mention being free from truck bans,” said dela Torre.

He also claimed that travel time between SLEX-Alabang to NLEX-Balintawak will be reduced to 15-20 minutes from the usual 1.5-2 hours.

“Our people will be thankful to our two tollway builders and operators when this Connector is finally operational, midway into the first quarter of the New Year,” dela Torre said.

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KGA