The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) is pushing the Marcos administration to fast-track the completion of a key project linking North Luzon Expressway-South Luzon Expressway (NLEX-SLEX) Connector Road and Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3.

MAP, which comprises the country’s tycoons and business leaders, said this infrastructure project will enhance connectivity between northern and southern Luzon, significantly reducing travel time.

The group said it would facilitate a more seamless access to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Clark International Airport, as well as the ports of Bataan, Manila, and Batangas.

It noted that this would improve operations of various businesses and boost the country’s tourism potential, further advancing economic growth.

The logistics sector is seen to be the primary beneficiary, as cargo trucks will now have 24/7 access to the road without concerns about truck bans.

“We firmly believe that vital transport infrastructure projects geared towards national development will open opportunities for more investments which will help spur economic growth,” MAP President Al Panlilio and the business group’s transportation and infrastructure committee chair Eduardo Yap said in a statement on Tuesday, April 22.

“We strongly urge the government, and the parties involved to fast-track the completion of this project and other vital infrastructure developments for nation-building,” they added.

The Skyway link project is set to alleviate congestion on major thoroughfares in Metro Manila, including España Boulevard, Quezon Avenue, Lacson Avenue, Magsaysay Boulevard, and Quirino Avenue.

Based on reports, the segment has been facing delays with its completion due to right-of-way (ROW) issues.

In November last year, the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) initiated the girder launching of the said project.