Manila: The use of Skyway Stage 3 (Skyway) and the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Connector Road will be free to all motorists for the entire duration of the Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) rebuild.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) expressed gratitude towards San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Tollways and Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), the operators of Skyway Stage 3 and NLEX Connector Road, respectively, for offering to implement the toll holiday. In a statement released on Thursday, the DOTr acknowledged the willingness of SMC and MPTC, led by Mr. Ramon Ang and Mr. Manny Pangilinan, to forego daily toll revenues to support the government and the public during this period.

Skyway Stage 3 and NLEX Connector will function as alternate routes for motorists once the EDSA rebuild commences on June 13 and continues until its completion in 2027. The DOTr highlighted that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. aims to reduce the inconvenience faced by commuters and motorists due to the EDSA rebuild. The contribution from the private partners, rooted in their sense of social responsibility, is expected to alleviate some of the challenges anticipated with the rebuild.

In addition to the toll holiday, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has recommended that motorists use the 'Mabuhay Lanes' or official alternative routes instead of EDSA during the rebuild to avoid heavy traffic. This advice comes ahead of the extensive infrastructure work planned.

Earlier this week, Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan outlined the timeline for the EDSA rebuild, which aims to enhance the road, drainage, and pedestrian infrastructures along EDSA.