MPTC offers toll-free passage on Christmas, New Year

MANILA, Philippines — The Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) announced yesterday a toll-free travel for motorists during select hours this Christmas and on New Year.

Manuel V. Pangilinan, MPTC chairman and CEO, said the initiative would bring family members together on special days.

“Family time is priceless, especially during the holidays. Offering toll-free access is our humble gift to families who wish to maximize their time together,” Pangilinan said.

According to the MPTC, motorists passing through the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), NLEX Connector, Cavite Toll Expressway (CAVITEX) and Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) can enjoy free toll passage on Dec. 24 from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. of Dec. 25, and again from 10 p.m. of Dec. 31 to 6 a.m. of Jan. 1.

Outside the designated hours, standard toll rates will be applied.

Forecasting a 10-percent increase in traffic volume, MPTC also reactivated its motorist assistance program dubbed “Safe Trip Mo, Sagot Ko” until Jan. 6 next year.

The MPTC said in an advisory that the program aims to ensure safe and convenient travel for motorists using its expressways this holiday season.

The surge of travelers is anticipated to continue until Dec. 24 and from Dec. 27 to 29. After New Year, vehicular traffic is expected to surge again from Jan. 3 to 6.

MPTC has deployed 1,500 patrol officers, marshals, security, incident response teams, lane and system personnel to assist travelers.