In a statement, the head of the country’s largest conglomerate said the expanded 29-kilometer stretch, running from Susanna Heights in Muntinlupa to Calamba, Laguna, is expected to alleviate traffic congestion during the holiday season.
The project, executed by San Miguel subsidiary and SLEX concession holder SMC SLEX Inc., adds two lanes in both southbound and northbound directions.
San Miguel chair and CEO Ramon Ang confirmed the progress, stating that the upgrade is on schedule.
“This December, as our countrymen prepare to celebrate Christmas and travel more to spend time with friends and family, they can look forward to a wider, better SLEX. This will help in significantly reducing traffic buildup during the holiday rush,” he said.
The at-grade expansion is part of a larger initiative that includes extending SLEX from Calamba, Laguna to Sto. Tomas, Batangas and the expansion of 20 bridges along the route. This segment of the project is set for completion by July 2025.
To minimize travel disruptions during construction, SMC has prioritized maintaining traffic flow along the expressway.
“Our contractors and project teams continue to do everything they can to minimize impact on vehicle traffic,” Ang said.
The SLEX upgrade aligns with San Miguel’s broader infrastructure goals, including enhancing the toll plaza system. Automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras have been installed, enabling barrier-less toll entry to reduce vehicle stops and prevent traffic bottlenecks.
The SLEX expansion is expected to boost economic activity in the Calabarzon region, which contributes 15 percent to the nation’s economic output. Ang emphasized the expressway’s role as a vital link between Metro Manila and Southern Luzon, facilitating commerce and mobility.
San Miguel has also decommissioned older toll plazas, including the Calamba Main Toll Plaza and the SLEX Greenfield Toll Plaza, to streamline the road network further. Once complete, the improved expressway will significantly enhance travel times and support regional development.
The December opening marks a key milestone in the ongoing development of the country’s transport infrastructure, providing immediate benefits for holiday travelers and long-term economic growth for the region, the firm said.
