Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon conducted a comprehensive site inspection of the Central Luzon Link Expressway (CLLEX) today, signaling the final stretch of preparations before the toll-free expressway opens more sections to the motoring public.
Accompanied by technical teams and project engineers, Secretary Dizon inspected three critical segments of the project:
-
Tarlac Section
-
Rio Chico River Bridge
-
Aliaga Section
The inspection follows a direct mandate from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to prioritize the completion of high-impact infrastructure that eases the daily burden on Filipino commuters and farmers.
Secretary Dizon emphasized that the administration is focused on “paspasan” (fast-tracking) the remaining repair works and safety installations to ensure that the transition from construction to full public use is seamless. “Our goal is simple: to provide immediate relief to our motorists. President Marcos Jr. has been very clear that we must eliminate delays in these vital arteries of commerce. By finishing these repairs now, we are ensuring a faster, safer, and more convenient travel experience for everyone heading to and from Central Luzon,” said Secretary Dizon.
Once fully operational, the CLLEX is expected to revolutionize travel between Tarlac City and Cabanatuan City, cutting travel time from 70 minutes down to just 20 minutes.
The project is a key component of the Luzon Spine Expressway Network, designed to:
-
Decongest the Pan-Philippine Highway (Daang Maharlika).
-
Boost Local Economy: Providing farmers in Nueva Ecija—the Rice Granary of the Philippines—faster access to markets in Metro Manila.
-
Support Tourism: Streamlining the route to the northern provinces.
The DPWH is currently finalizing road safety signages, pavement markings, and bridge expansion joints. Secretary Dizon assured the public that while speed is a priority, the quality and integrity of the infrastructure will not be compromised.
The Department expects to announce the formal opening date of these sections shortly after the final safety audit is completed.
