NLEX Corporation has issued an official statement following the recent road incident involving an overheight 18-wheeler trailer truck and an AUV beneath the Marilao Bridge, which drew swift attention from Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon.
In the June 19 statement, NLEX said it is fully cooperating with the DOTr, Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) as a comprehensive investigation into the incident is underway.
“The safety and well-being of our motorists is our top priority,” the company stated, expressing sympathy to the victims and their families. “We are truly saddened by this incident, and our hearts go out to all those affectedβ¦ We commit our support and assistance as they navigate through this challenging situation.”
NLEX emphasized that it has long enforced policies and safety protocols, particularly those involving height limits. The corporation said it has installed numerous warning signs across the expressway system and regularly apprehends violators. Despite these measures, some drivers continue to ignore posted height restrictions.
βNotwithstanding our continuing apprehension of vehicles which violate height limits, there are still vehicles which recklessly ignore the numerous signages that clearly indicate the bridgeβs height limit,β the statement read.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for stricter enforcement and motorist discipline along the expressway. NLEX echoed this call, urging drivers to follow traffic regulations to ensure public safety and preserve critical infrastructure.
βIt is a shared responsibility to protect lives, prevent accidents, and ensure that public infrastructure remains safe and functional,β NLEX said.
The corporation assured the public that it is reviewing protocols and will work with government agencies to implement any necessary improvements arising from the investigation.