Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 19) – San Miguel Corporation and the Provincial Government of Pangasinan on Thursday signed a toll concession and joint venture project agreement for the creation of the 76.80 kilometer-long Pangasinan Link Expressway (PLEX) project that is seen to boost the province’s economic growth.
The roadway’s first phase will begin at the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway’s (TPLEX) exit in Binalonan town and will stretch for 42.76 kilometers until Lingayen town. From there, its second phase will continue all the way to Alaminos town.
PLEX will create a seamless link to the New Manila International Airport (NMIA), which SMC is also spearheading. It is seen to uplift the economy and connectivity in Central and Northern Luzon.
“With PLEX connecting to other infrastructure such as TPLEX, which will support access to the NMIA, this project will significantly benefit Pangasinan’s local industries, home-grown products, and agricultural sector. At the same time, the rich history, culture, and cuisine of the province will be even more accessible to more Filipinos,” SMC President and CEO Ramon Ang said.
Pangasinan Governor Ramon V. Guico III said PLEX is one of the most important projects and a game-changer for the province.
“This is because it is envisioned to reinvent the transportation and enrich the tourism landscape; prioritize accessibility of citizens to major towns and cities, magnify business and livelihood opportunities, multiply economic activity, build more infrastructure, and protect the environment,” Guico said.
SMC said it would shoulder the construction costs, and that the Pangasinan LGU will receive a substantial share of PLEX’s earnings.
