Metro Manila’s motorists can look forward to improved road access as NLEX Corporation officially breaks ground for the NLEX-C5 Northlink Section 1A project. This significant infrastructure initiative, spanning 11.3 kilometers from Mindanao Avenue to C5/C.P. Garcia near Katipunan Avenue, aims to alleviate congestion in Quezon City and Valenzuela.
L-R: Valenzuela 2nd District Rep. Eric Martinez, Quezon City Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, Valenzuela Vice Mayor Lorena Borja, National Housing Authority General Manager Joeben Tai, DPWH Director Loreta Malaluan, NLEX OIC & CFO Maria Theresa Wells, MPTC CFO Luis Reñon, MPTC President & CEO Jose Ma. Lim, MPTC Chief Regulatory Officer Arrey Perez, TRB Exec. Director Atty. Alvin Carullo, DPWH Director Pelita Galvez, China Road & Bridge Corporation Deputy Gen. Manager & OIC for Mktg & Investment/HR Zhang Lei and CRBC Ge. Manager Ren Xiaopeng
A Transformational Project for Mobility and Economic Growth
Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) President and CEO Jose Ma. Lim underscored the project’s role in nation-building, emphasizing its potential to enhance accessibility and economic activity in the metro.
“This is a major milestone for us. The NLEX-C5 Northlink is a vital infrastructure development that will reduce travel time, ease traffic congestion, and provide a seamless connection between Valenzuela and Quezon City,” Lim said. “By constructing an elevated expressway, we aim to minimize disruptions to surrounding communities while ensuring a 24/7 route for motorists and trucks.”
Beyond mobility, Lim highlighted the project’s capacity to stimulate business growth, create job opportunities, and improve logistics efficiency. He assured the public that MPTC is prioritizing safety, sustainability, and close coordination with all stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation.
Valenzuela’s Commitment to Infrastructure Progress
Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian expressed optimism about the project’s impact on his city, particularly in creating much-needed open spaces and resolving right-of-way concerns through a dedicated one-stop-shop initiative.
“This segment will provide a more convenient route for Valenzuela residents traveling to C5, significantly decongesting our local roads and benefiting both commuters and businesses,” Gatchalian stated. “We are committed to working hand in hand with MPTC to ensure the timely completion of this vital project, which we hope to see operational by the second quarter of 2026.”
Gatchalian also lauded the successful resettlement of affected households and businesses, demonstrating the project’s careful planning and strong collaboration with local government units.
Quezon City’s Vision for Sustainable and Efficient Urban Transport
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte echoed the significance of the expressway, recognizing it as a long-overdue solution to the city’s traffic woes, particularly in areas like Novaliches.
“This project will enhance mobility and provide a more efficient route for residents traveling to and from Novaliches,” Belmonte said. “Traffic congestion has been a major issue affecting our constituents’ quality of life. We commend NLEX and its partners for addressing this challenge through this expressway.”
Belmonte also acknowledged the challenges of relocating affected families, stating that local government units worked diligently to ensure smooth transitions while keeping the well-being of the communities in mind. “A more connected Metro Manila is a more livable, sustainable, and progressive one,” she added.
A Step Forward in Nation-Building
The NLEX-C5 Northlink Section 1A is a crucial addition to Metro Manila’s expressway network, integrating key roadways such as EDSA, Commonwealth Avenue, Quirino Highway, and Mindanao Avenue. Once completed, it will significantly reduce travel time, ease traffic congestion, and boost the region’s economic prospects.
With construction set to span 12 months for the initial two-kilometer segment, MPTC and NLEX Corporation reaffirmed their commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure while minimizing disruptions to surrounding communities. The project aligns with the government’s Build Better More initiative, solidifying its role in advancing regional development and improving the everyday lives of motorists and commuters alike.
What’s in It for You?
Let’s sum it up! The NLEX-C5 Northlink project is set to benefit a wide range of road users, from daily commuters to business owners and frequent travelers. Here’s what you can expect:
- Faster travel with reduced congestion on major roads like Commonwealth Avenue, Quirino Highway, and Mindanao Avenue.
- More efficient routes between Valenzuela and Quezon City, also for those coming from the Northern Provinces accessing the Northeastern NCR.
- Less traffic stress, leading to improved daily commutes.
- Better logistics with 24/7 access for trucks, ensuring smooth supply chain operations.
- Increased accessibility, allowing goods and services to move more efficiently across Metro Manila.
- Greater economic growth opportunities as infrastructure development fosters new business investments.
- Seamless connectivity with direct expressway links to key destinations in Metro Manila.
- More convenient routes to avoid Metro Manila’s notorious gridlock.
- Stress-free journeys with reduced travel time, allowing for more enjoyable trips.
With the NLEX-C5 Northlink, mobility and economic progress go hand in hand, promising a more accessible and connected Metro Manila for all.
