Tollway rules to be strictly enforced even at night

MANILA, Philippines - Apprehensions in tollways have increased by 40 percent, as government and toll managers vowed stricter enforcement of road regulations even at night during the Holy Week.

“We have noticed that the speed drivers are usually (monitored) at night and take advantage of the (fewer) roving patrols. This year will signal the beginning of strict enforcement even at night,” said Edmundo Reyes, executive director of the Toll Regulatory Board.

Reyes said toll operators have sensors that can detect the plate numbers of vehicles even at night.

“We will be busy to make sure it’s safe to travel at night,” Reyes said during the launch of the “Safe Trip Mo, Sagot Ko” program yesterday.

Under the program, motorists using the tollways will be given assistance and amenities such as free calls and Wi-Fi access, complimentary water and refreshments, and even sun protection products.

The Tollways Management Corp., operator of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), will deploy extra personnel at the Balintawak, Mindanao Avenue, Bocaue and Dau plazas.

Vehicular volume is expected to increase by 15 to 20 percent from the daily average of 16,000 on the NLEX and 24,000 on the SCTEX.

Raul Ignacio, vice president of the cons-truction and engineering division of the Manila North Tollways Corp., said there would be first aid teams, free towing for class 1 vehicles, and 24-hour mechanic services.

He added that there will be no mainline road works starting tomorrow until April 2.