PamCham Chair urges NLEX to step up traffic solutions, fast-track elevated expressway amid Marilao Bridge crisis
In response to the ongoing traffic crisis caused by the damage to the Marilao Interchange Bridge, Rene G. Romero, Chairman of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham), is calling on NLEX Corporation to implement stronger, smarter traffic solutions and to seriously revisit the long proposed elevated highway from Balintawak to Bocaue.
Romero emphasized that the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) is more than just a toll road it is a lifeline for business, mobility, and regional development in Central and Northern Luzon. “What happened in Marilao is unfortunate, but it also shows the vulnerability of this vital corridor,” he said. “A single incident has paralyzed traffic, delayed goods, disrupted travel plans, and strained the local economy.”
While acknowledging the ongoing repair work, Romero stressed that the motoring public, which has long been paying the burden of increasing toll fees, deserves better service, smarter infrastructure, and efficient crisis response from NLEX Corporation.
Immediate Solutions Urged
Romero laid out specific recommendations for NLEX Corporation to implement without delay:
• Installation of overheight vehicle sensors/bars at all NLEX and SCTEX toll entrances to prevent future incidents involving oversize trucks.
• Deployment of real-time, 24/7 traffic updates accessible through social media, navigation apps, radio, and expressway control centers.
• Installation of large LED billboards at toll plazas and key entry points along the expressway to inform motorists about the current traffic situation, estimated travel times, detour advisories, and updates on the status of repairs.
• Implementation of organized rerouting schemes, making full use of MacArthur Highway, parallel service roads, and managed zipper lanes, with sufficient traffic enforcement along alternate routes.
• Consideration of temporary infrastructure such as modular steel lanes or ramps to keep traffic moving during the bridge’s rehabilitation.
Long-Term Solution: Balintawak–Bocaue Elevated Expressway
Romero also renewed PamCham’s long-standing appeal to NLEX Corporation to build an elevated expressway from Balintawak to Bocaue, which would serve as a dedicated alternate route during congestion or emergencies.
“This project has been proposed for years. The current crisis underscores why we need it now,” Romero said. “An elevated expressway in this section will ease daily congestion and provide immediate relief during emergencies. It’s a crucial investment in the future of our road network.”
He emphasized that this project would support not only the motoring public but also commerce and logistics that rely on uninterrupted transport systems. “We urge NLEX to finally reconsider this proposal. The time to act is now.”
Romero concluded by reaffirming PamCham’s readiness to collaborate with NLEX Corporation, national agencies, and local government units to ensure these solutions move forward.
“We continue to support NLEX as a strategic partner in national development,” Romero said. “But with increasing toll fees comes the obligation to deliver infrastructure and services that are efficient, reliable, and forward-thinking. The people and businesses of Central and Northern Luzon deserve no less.”