General trias: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday led the opening of a new segment of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX), noting the reduction in travel time and enhanced connectivity in South Luzon. The newly inaugurated 7.88-kilometer Subsection 3 extends the expressway to the Governor's Drive Interchange in General Trias, Cavite. This development cuts travel time between Bi±an, Laguna, and General Trias to approximately 26 minutes from the previous one hour.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President highlighted the challenges faced during the project, particularly issues related to the right of way. "This is 10 years in the making. ang nagiging problema natin sa lahat ng mga construction ng mga kalsada, 'yung right of way (the usual problem in road construction is right of way)," Marcos stated. He expressed relief and satisfaction that the segment is now operational.
Marcos also announced that the new segment would be toll-free for a month, encouraging motorists to take advantage of this period. "I can announce na mabuksan ninyo starting 12 midnight tonight. and for one month wala na muna toll (It will open starting 12 midnight tonight. and for one month, there will be no toll)," he mentioned. The President urged the public to utilize the new infrastructure to experience the convenience it offers.
Subsection 3 is projected to accommodate around 6,000 additional motorists daily, providing a vital alternative route that bypasses congested local roads in Cavite. With this addition, the operational length of CALAX now stretches 26 kilometers from Mamplasan in Bi±an, Laguna. Upon completion, the 44.6-kilometer expressway will connect the Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX) to the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), becoming a key transport corridor in the region.
Marcos extended his gratitude to private sector partners, including the Metro Pacific group, for their support in the project. "At I'm sure mararamdaman nga natin ang magiging mas mabilis at mas ginhawa na pagbiyahe (I'm sure we will feel faster and more convenient travel)," he concluded.
