In the Philippines, expressways offer more than just smooth roads. They come packed with a range of features like guard rails, speed radars, and rest areas. These highways serve as a catalyst for national progress, providing essential access to employment, education, healthcare, and other vital services. They are the lifelines that connect communities and drive development.
List of expressways in the Philippines
North Luzon Expressways (NLEX)
- From: Balintawak, Quezon City
- To: Santa Ines, Mabalacat, Pampanga
Spanning 84 kilometers, this expressway forms a vital link between Metro Manila and Central Luzon. It serves as a crucial transportation route in the eastern region of Central Luzon.
NLEX, the longest expressway in the Philippines, is owned by NLEX Corporation and operated by the Toll Road Management Company. With four tollbooths and 15 highway exits, it provides convenient access to various destinations.
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South Luzon Expressway (SLEX)
- From: Nichols, Pasay City
- To: Santo Tomas, Batangas
The Southern Luzon Expressway (SLEX), originally built in 1969, is a vital transportation link between Metro Manila and the Calabarzon region. It comprises two expressways: Expressway Route 2 (E2) and Radial Route 3 (R-3), serving as key components of Manila's arterial network.\
Stretching over 51 kilometers, SLEX is divided among various organizations for maintenance. The Osmena Expressway, also known as the Southern Expressway, is looked after by the DPWH and MMDA. The Metro Manila Skyway, the country's first fully graded expressway, is operated by SomCo. Meanwhile, the Southern Luzon Tollway, ACTEx, and SLEX Main are managed by MATES.
Metro Manila Skyway
- From: Buendia, Makati
- To: Alabang, Muntinlupa
The Metro Manila Skyway, spanning 17 kilometers, proudly holds the title of the Philippines' first fully graded expressway. With 10 convenient exits and three exit ramps, it plays a crucial role in easing traffic congestion on SLEX and other busy roads.
The groundbreaking Skyway project commenced on April 7, 1995, and its first phase opened in October 1999. Since 2008, the esteemed Skyway Operations and Maintenance Corporation (SOMCO) has been responsible for its operation. Notably, this expressway is set to become one of the world's longest overpasses.
The Skyway Stage 3 is a significant infrastructure project under President Rodrigo Duterte's 'Build, Build, Build' program. This expanded flyover spans approximately 18.68 kilometers, linking SLEX to NLEX at crucial points. While it was partially opened to the public on December 29, 2020, some entrances and exits remained closed. San Miguel Corporation (SMC) has committed to opening all access points by January 14, 2021. Moreover, SMC plans to extend the Skyway to Susana Heights, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion on other major roads. Additionally, SMC is working on connecting the NLEX Connector expressway to the Skyway Stage 3 elevated roadway, with completion slated for 2021.
Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX)
- From: Aseana City, Parañaque
- To: Kawit, Cavite
The scenic expressway stretches for about 14 kilometers, providing picturesque views of Manila Bay and the city skyline. It is currently undergoing expansion towards Novilleta, led by Metro Pacific Investments Corporation headed by Manny V. Pangilinan. This extension aims to alleviate traffic congestion on key roads and reduce travel time.
North Luzon West Expressway
Subic-Tipo Expressway
- From: Subic, Zambales
- To: Hermosa, Bataan
The Subic-Tipo Expressway, also known as STipEx and Subic Freeport Expressway, is a vital part of the Philippine expressway network. As NLEX Segment 7 and Expressway 4 (E4), it traverses the scenic provinces of Zambales and Bataan.
STiPex, built in 1996, takes you on an exhilarating journey from Rizal Highway to Argonaut Highway, ascending into the breathtaking Bataan National Park. Spanning 8.8 km, this scenic highway is owned by NLEX Corporation and expertly managed by the Tollways Management Corporation.
Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX)
- From: Hermosa, Bataan
- To:Tarlac City, Tarlac
Along the Subic-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), the Philippines' longest expressway. Spanning 94 kms, this impressive four-lane highway in Central Luzon was inaugurated in July 2008. Built by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and meticulously maintained by the NLEX Corporation, SCTEX offers a smooth and efficient travel experience.
Unleashing economic potential, this expressway serves as a vital gateway to thriving destinations. It provides the shortest and most direct route to key areas like the bustling Subic Bay Special Economic Zone and Freeport Zone in Zambales, the vibrant Clark Special Economic Zone in Pampanga, and the thriving Luisita Industrial Park in Tarlac.
SCTEX embarks from the vibrant Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Zambales, weaving through the dynamic Clark Freeport Zone with interchanges at Clark North and Clark South. It seamlessly connects with NLEX through Mabalacat Interchange and concludes at Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway in Brgy. Amucao, Tarlac City. This shortened travel time considerably, reducing the journey from Clark to Subic to just 40 minutes and from Clark to Tarlac to only 25 minutes.
As it stretches across Central Luzon, this expressway gracefully crosses four rivers, namely the Dinalupihan River in Bataan, the Gumain River in Floridablanca, the Pasig-Potrero River in Porac, Pampanga, and the Sacobia River in Concepcion, Tarlac.
In November 2019, the first phase of the Philippine Arena Interchanges was unveiled for the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games. This impressive four-lane overpass bridge spans across NLEX, connecting Bocaue Municipal Hall, NLEX, Ciudad de Victoria, and Bocaue-Sta. Maria Bypass Road.
Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX)
- From: Tarlac City, Tarlac
- To: Rosario, La Union
This highway serves as a vital link between Central Luzon and North Luzon. With its four-lane design, it spans around 88.85 kilometers, recently extended by an additional 4 kilometers. The highway connects the central and northern regions of Luzon, stretching from Tarlac province to the proposed terminus in Rosario, La Union province. It effectively extends the NLEX and SCTEX route from Tarlac to Rosario, La Union.
The initial phase spans from Tarra City to Rosales, Pangasinan province. The second phase extends from Rosales to Urdaneta, Pangasinan province. Lastly, the third phase connects Urdaneta City in Pangasinan to La Union de Rosario. Along the expressway, there are 10 exits and 2 tollbooths for convenience.
Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR Tollway)
- From: Sto. Tomas, Batangas
- To: Batangas City, Batangas
The Tagalog South Trunk Road, also known as STAR Toll Road or CALABARZON Expressway, is a 42 km stretch of 2 to 4 lane expressway. With 6 convenient exits along the way, it offers easy access to different destinations. Managed by STAR Infrastructure Development Corporation (SIDC), the expressway connects Maharlika Expressway and SLEX intersection in St. Thomas to the Batangas International Port near Diversion Road, passing through Marawar, Lipa, and Ibaan.
NAIA Expressway (NAIAEx)
- From: Metro Manila Skyway, Pasay City (NAIA Exit)
- To: Newport City, Pasay City
The NAIA Expressway, also known as NAIAX, is a high-flying expressway that links the Metro Manila Skyway, Casino City, and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). This road zooms through the vibrant cities of Pasay and Paranaque.
The NAIA Expressway, also known as Expressway No. 6 (E6), is a game-changer in the Philippine Expressway Network. Spanning about 12.65 kilometers, it's here to revolutionize your journey to NAIA Airport. Say goodbye to the usual 60-minute ride from SLEX, as this expressway will get you there in just 20 minutes!
NAIAx, operated by Skyway Operations and Maintenance, took flight in two impressive phases. The first phase began construction in 2003, while the second phase soared to full operation in June 2017.
North Luzon Expressway East (NLEE)
- From: Commonwealth Ave., Quezon City
- To: Tuguegarao City, Cagayan
This is a proposed expressway. Soon, a proposed superhighway will become the backbone of Cagayan Valley and central-eastern Luzon, revolutionizing travel in the region.
Cebu Trans-Axial Expressway
The Cebu-Cordoba Link Expressway, officially opened on April 27, 2022. Connecting mainland Cebu to Mactan Island, this impressive bridge holds the title of the longest in the country. Managing the highway is the Metropolitan Pacific Tollway Corporation (MPTC), with its subsidiary, the Cebu Cordova Link Expressway Corporation (CCLEC), spearheading the financing of this extraordinary project.
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What is the speed limit on an expressway?
Expressways are designed to facilitate swift travel, but safety is paramount. So, buckle up and pay attention to the speed limits. In all expressways, the minimum speed is set at 60 kph, ensuring a smooth flow of traffic. For cars, the maximum speed limit is 100 kph, while trucks and buses should not exceed 80 kph. If you're on the NAIA Expressway (NAIAx), maintain a steady 60 kph. Remember, breaking these rules can lead to penalties under Republic Act 4136.
What are some driving tips for driving on the expressway?
- Observe the proper speed limit, not too fast nor slow. Don't risk a violation by going too slow or too fast! Find your speed sweet spot in the middle of the speedometer for a smoother and safer ride. Maintain momentum and stay within the acceptable range to avoid any trouble on the road.
- Stay in your lane. Don't veer off unexpectedly, as it can lead to serious risks and hazards. Keep yourself within the designated boundaries .
- Always check your mirrors and activate your turn signals when in an attempt to change lanes.Before changing lanes, always be sure to assess your surroundings and anticipate the fast-approaching vehicles. Stay vigilant and make informed decisions .
- Keep the passing lane open. Remember, the passing lane is not for leisurely cruising—it's for overtaking! If that's not your intention, it's best to stick to the middle lanes and allow those on the right to pass you by.
- No to distracted driving. Let's talk about the dangers of distracted driving and one all-too-common culprit: smartphone use. Not only does using your phone behind the wheel put your safety at risk, but it's also a clear violation of the Anti-Distracted Driving Act. Stay focused on the road .
- Observe a safe following distance. Don't tailgate the vehicle in front of you—it's a recipe for danger. Keep a distance of at least one car length to ensure you have enough time to react and prevent accidents on the highway.
- Prepare your toll fee. Check out the Toll Regulatory Board website to browse the toll fee rates for all expressways in the country. And don't forget to attach an RFID sticker to your vehicle for added convenience on the road.
- No line cutting at the toll.
- Take a rest. Long drives can take a toll on your legs. To rejuvenate yourself for the remaining journey, make sure to take breaks at fuel stops or convenient rest areas along the way.
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After exploring the details of Philippine highways, you now have a better grasp of the country's traffic system. When driving in the Philippines, make the most of these highways to cut down travel time. And remember, always prioritize road safety by adhering to traffic regulations.
