The Department of Transportation (DOTr) extends its sincere gratitude to San Miguel Corporation Tollways and Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) for their invaluable support in implementing a toll holiday on the Skyway Stage 3 and NLEX Connector. This initiative will serve as a critical measure to ease congestion and provide alternate routes during the entire duration of the EDSA Rebuild project.
In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to lessen the impact of the EDSA Rebuild on commuters and motorists, the toll holiday reflects a commendable sense of social responsibility and nation-building from our private sector partners.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to SMC and MPTC, led by Mr. Ramon S. Ang and Mr. Manny V. Pangilinan, for their willingness to set aside daily toll revenues in favor of public service. Their cooperation will help the government mitigate the expected challenges and inconvenience to the riding public during the project,” the DOTr stated.
In a related development, the DOTr also announced operational changes at MRT-3 to support smoother commuting during the rebuild. The removal of X-ray machines from baggage inspection areas—effective immediately—is expected to significantly reduce wait times, especially during rush hours.
This move follows the President’s directive to streamline the commuting experience. Before these improvements, rush hour lines at MRT-3 stations could take as long as one to two hours. With the changes in place, queues are now reduced to just 5 to 10 minutes, even during peak times.
The removal of X-ray machines will be rolled out to other train stations starting next week. Despite the changes, passenger safety remains a top priority, with heightened security maintained through Philippine Coast Guard personnel, K9 units, and advanced surveillance systems.
These collaborative and strategic efforts mark an important step toward building a more efficient and commuter-friendly transportation system as the country embarks on the transformative EDSA Rebuild project.
