The NLEX Candaba 3rd Viaduct is set for full opening next month, with NLEX Corporation officials and key government representatives conducting an inspection to mark the project’s near completion. Led by NLEX Corporation President and General Manager J. Luigi L. Bautista, the event was attended by Pampanga 4th District Representative Anna York Bondoc, San Simon Mayor Abundio Punsalan Jr., Pulilan Mayor Ma. Rosario Montejo, Pulilan Vice Mayor Rolando Peralta, Apalit Vice Mayor Pedro Nucom, Pampanga Provincial Administrator Atty. Charlie Chua, and Atty. Nikki Coronel, Chief of Staff of Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando.
The five-kilometer-long viaduct, now 97% complete, is a vital infrastructure project situated between two existing bridges connecting Pulilan, Bulacan, and Apalit, Pampanga. Designed to ease traffic congestion, the project forms part of NLEX Corporation’s broader decongestion initiative.
“This project would not be possible without the support of both our public and private partners. It’s fitting to give our valued stakeholders a glimpse of this vital infrastructure,” Bautista said.
Construction of the Candaba 3rd Viaduct began in the third quarter of 2023, with an initial target completion of 22 months. Thanks to the efforts of NLEX Corporation and construction partner Leighton Contractors (Asia) Limited, the project is now four months ahead of schedule. Zone 1 in Pulilan opened in August 2024, followed by Zone 2 in Apalit in October. Once fully operational, the viaduct will enhance mobility for motorists and businesses, spurring socio-economic growth in the region.
“Despite the challenges posed by typhoons during construction, we remain committed to delivering this project before the Christmas holiday rush,” Bautista said. He added that the viaduct is part of NLEX Corporation’s commitment to addressing the country’s growing traffic demands through enhancement and expansion projects aimed at improving travel experiences.
As a critical link between Metro Manila, Central Luzon, and Northern Luzon, the viaduct is expected to ease traffic flow, bolster trade and commerce, and support tourism across regions. NLEX Corporation, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), continues to play a key role in driving regional connectivity and economic progress.
