GMA inaugurates airport interchange

MANILA, Philippines - Just before leaving for South Korea yesterday, President Arroyo inaugurated a newly constructed interchange connecting the Skyway and South Luzon Expressway to the airport district in Pasay and Parañaque cities.

Before proceeding to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) terminal, the President rode the back of a pick-up truck for the ceremonial drive through the two-kilometer interchange. The construction of the interchange started in 2003 and cost P1 billion.

According to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the delay in the construction of the interchange was due to problems related to the relocation of residents where the road passed through.

DPWH undersecretary Romeo Momo said travel time from the South Luzon Expressway or Skyway to the NAIA Terminal 3 would take only 30 minutes. The toll at the new interchange is P85 for cars, jeeps and pickups and P117 for buses and bigger vehicles.

Vehicles coming from the north passing through Tramo can access the new interchange through Sales street.

Momo said the President was happy to see the completion of Package 1, 2, 3 and 4-A of the interchange. The only part left to be completed is Package 4-B.          – Marvin Sy