Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26) — San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is preparing its expressways in anticipation of the increase in the volume of vehicles during the Barangay ang Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) and Undas.
In a statement Thursday, SMC Infrastructure said all roadworks and related activities that could affect traffic are suspended starting Friday noon until 10 p.m. of Nov. 5 on South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR), the Skyway System, NAIA Expressway, and the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).
The government declared Oct. 30 a special non-working day for the BSKE, while Nov. 1 and 2 are All Saint’s Day and All Souls’ Day, respectively.
\”In support of the Department of Transportation’s Oplan Biyaheng Ayos, which aims to provide our countrymen smooth and safe travels, SMC Infrastructure is putting in place a multitude of mitigating measures to help make motorists’ journeys more manageable and safe,” the company said in a statement.
The SMC advised motorists to plan their trips ahead of the upcoming holidays as heavier traffic is anticipated on its expressways as early as the evening of Oct. 27.
Motorists were also reminded to ensure that their Autosweep accounts have sufficient load and to prepare their cards should these be needed to minimize possible delays at the tollways.
The SMC also advised motorists to avoid tailgating at exit lanes so RFID readers can scan vehicle tags properly; ensure vehicles are roadworthy before traveling; observe all traffic rules, especially speed limits; and wear seatbelts at all times.
According to the company, it has coordinated its traffic management plans with the Toll Regulatory Board, concerned local government units, police, and transportation authorities.
More patrollers and toll personnel will also be stationed at exits and toll plazas of the expressways.
\”Emergency services such as fire trucks, ambulances, and towing trucks have also been readied and are on standby to provide immediate assistance to distressed motorists,” the company said.
Distressed motorists could call the following hotlines should they need assistance at the expressways:
• SLEX Hotline: 09176877539
• TPLEX Hotline: 09178880715
•STAR Hotlines: 09175117827 / 043-7567870
• Skyway Hotline: 02-53188655
