San pedro: The opening of the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) Northbound Entry-Exit Interchange in San Pedro City, Laguna, is set to ease daily travel for thousands of motorists heading to the city and the neighboring cities of Bi±an and San Pedro.
According to Philippines News Agency, Danilo Lucas, the Acting Provincial Information Officer of Laguna, emphasized that the new interchange not only facilitates travel but also presents broader opportunities for local economic growth, tourism, and regional integration. Lucas relayed Governor Sol Aragones' gratitude at the ceremonial opening, acknowledging the interchange as a bridge to the development of Laguna tourism.
Lucas highlighted that the project was initiated in July 2018, during a groundbreaking ceremony led by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) alongside other key stakeholders. The collaboration involved DPWH, the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), San Miguel Holdings Corporation, and the city government of San Pedro. The funding efforts were actively pursued by former DPWH secretary and current Senator Mark Villar.
The San Pedro Northbound Interchange is now a symbol of united governance, modern engineering, and public-centered development, redefining the city's entryway to progress, Lucas added.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, during a media interview at the inauguration, stated that the newly opened San Pedro Northbound Toll Plaza aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to ease vehicular traffic and provide a more convenient journey for motorists. He noted the president's focus on the convenience of motorists, highlighting the "Build Better More" initiative aimed at improving the lives of commuters and motorists.
The new toll exit is anticipated to serve 5,000 to 10,000 motorists, potentially saving up to 45 minutes in travel time, as northbound motorists previously had to drive to the Southwoods northbound toll to exit.
During the event, Dizon expressed gratitude to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, the local government of Laguna, and SLEX operator San Miguel Corporation Tollways for the swift completion of the project.
