Conglomerate San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is set to waive fees for its expressway network on Christmas and New Year's eve.
In a statement on Friday, Dec. 20, SMC said it will waive toll from 10pm on December 24 to 6am of December 25, and from 10pm on December 31 to 6am of January 1 across the Skyway System, NAIA Expressway (NAIAX), South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), STAR Tollway, and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).
SMC Chairman Ramon S. Ang said that the initiative was the company's way of thanking motorists using its expressway network.
"It’s something we look forward to every year because it helps thousands of motorists get home to their families a little easier, especially during Christmas and New Year," he said.
SMC also deployed patrollers and security personnel in critical areas on Friday, while emergency response personnel will be placed on alert during the peak travel season.
Traffic monitoring centers at each of the expressways will also be monitored round-the-clock to keep watch over the flow of vehicle traffic.
Roadworks that may affect traffic flow have been suspended until Jan, 3, 2025 to free up space along carriageways.
Tow trucks and other emergency vehicles are also being pre-positioned at strategic areas to be able to respond to incidents quickly.
Meanwhile, SMC Infrastructure has stepped up its coordination with the traffic management offices of local government units, to minimize traffic bottlenecks in their jurisdictions.
“We appeal to our motorists for patience as we anticipate heavy traffic around Metro Manila, which may affect their travel plans or scheduled flights. We advise them to plan their trips ahead and allot more time for travel, to make sure they arrive at their destinations on time,” the company said.
The expressway operator reminded motorists to ensure they have enough load in their Autosweep RFID accounts, to prevent delays at exits.
Additionally, SMC Infrastructure advised motorists to check their vehicles before traveling to ensure they are roadworthy and avoid potential incidents while on the expressways.
For road emergencies, motorists can contact the following hotlines for assistance:
-Skyway System and NAIAx (02-53188655 or 0917-5398762);
-SLEX (049-5087539 or 0917-6877539);
-STAR Tollway (043-7567870 or 0917-5117827);
-TPLEX (0917-8880715)