MANILA — San Miguel Corporation’s infrastructure unit has increased the deployment of tollways personnel to efficiently manage the anticipated surge in vehicle traffic across its expressways during the long Lenten holiday.
These expressways include the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR), Skyway System, NAIA Expressway, and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).
To ease congestion at peak times, additional ambulant tellers equipped with handheld RFID card readers will be stationed at toll plazas’ entry and exit points.
SMC Infrastructure has also intensified patrol surveillance to ensure rapid emergency responses and assistance for motorists in need.
With an expected 10% surge in traffic, partly fueled by efforts to promote domestic tourism, SMC is coordinating with local government units to ensure smooth traffic flow.
“We urge motorists to plan their trips in advance for a smoother, safer drive along expressways. Ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained and roadworthy is important for your convenience and safety. This will help prevent common issues like tire blowouts and engine overheating. Such problems can cause considerable delays and inconvenience, affecting not just you but others as well,” said Ramon S. Ang, President and CEO of SMC.
Motorists are also reminded to maintain sufficient balance in their Autosweep RFID accounts to prevent toll plaza delays. Easy top-up options — including online banking, e-wallets, and payment kiosks —are available through various channels. Extended service hours at Autosweep desks and stations are also implemented to facilitate the switch to RFID, in line with cashless transaction policies.
“Safety remains our top priority,” Ang said as he reminded motorists to follow seatbelt, safe distance, and speed limit regulations.
Speed limits are enforced at 100 kph for Class 1 vehicles and 80 kph for Classes 2 and 3 on at-grade expressways, with a 60 kph limit on Skyway Stage 3 and NAIA Expressway for enhanced safety.
(el Amigo/MNM)
