NLEX says expanded SFEX delivering promised results

MANILA, Philippines — NLEX Corp., a subsidiary of the Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., said the recently expanded Subic Freeport Expressway (SFEX) has been delivering on its promised benefits as the expressway has resulted in efficient transport of basic commodities and other essential goods.

NLEX president and general manager Luigi Bautista said the expanded SFEX aims to spur investments and boost efficiencies of businesses in North and Central Luzon provinces.

“Our truckers and those in the logistics industries serve as lifeline maintaining critical supply chains during this pandemic. We are delighted that the new SFEX has been significantly beneficial for this sector that plays a key role in the economic recovery,” Bautista said.

Since its opening in February, over 1.3 million motorists have traversed the new SFEX and have since experienced the safer and more convenient travel it offers, according to the tollway firm.

The P1.6-billion expansion of the 8.2-kilometer SFEX increased the expressway capacity from one lane to two lanes in each direction.

A total of 16.4 new lane kilometers, two new bridges in Jadjad and Argonaut, and a new tunnel were constructed to improve mobility, enable safer travel, and support the logistics and supply chain operations.

The tollway company also installed LED lights, raised the elevation of the Maritan Highway-Rizal Highway-Tipo Road junction, and enhanced the area’s drainage system.

NLEX completed the new expressway project despite the pandemic in response to the need to increase business activities and facilitate the faster flow of goods and services going in and out of the Subic Freeport Zone.

Transport and logistics companies have lauded the new SFEX in improving transport efficiency.

“Roads are considered the arteries of our economy and improving the flow of traffic means faster delivery of goods and services. This is what the SFEX made happen with its expansion – the travel time of our trucks to and from Subic Port is now 50 percent faster,” said Bernstein Estiandan, president of JA Global Logistics Solutions Inc.

“Our operations became more efficient. And most importantly, it increased the level of safety in driving,” he said.

Eugene Montejo, Manila allied services head of Yello X Supply Chain Solutions Inc., said the expanded SFEX has also resulted in a faster, safer and more convenient travel for their trucks.

“As a government partner in nation-building, we remain committed to afford our motorists and communities the enhanced connectivity and accessibility and be a critical enabler for various industries,” Bautista said.