NLEX Corporation and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Marilao, Bulacan have partnered to improve road safety while ensuring the humane rescue and care of stray animals found along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).
NLEX President and General Manager Luis S. Reñon and Marilao Mayor Atty. Jemina M. Sy signed a Memorandum of Agreement establishing the municipality’s Animal Shelter and Care Facility (ASCF) as the turnover site for strays rescued along the expressway.
Under the partnership, NLEX created the NLEX Animal Rescue Team (ART), a specialized unit trained by the ASCF in humane animal handling, rescue, and transport. Team members were also provided with necessary vaccinations as a precaution against health risks associated with handling stray animals.
Reñon said the initiative is part of NLEX’s broader road safety advocacy through its NLEX I Care for Strays program, which seeks to reduce stray-animal-related incidents through responsible rescue operations, proper animal care, and coordination with LGUs.
Sy welcomed the partnership, noting that it addresses both the safety of motorists traveling on high-speed roads and the welfare of stray animals.
NLEX will also provide monthly animal feed and support the continued monitoring of the health and welfare of rescued animals.
Launched in 2024, NLEX I Care for Strays is part of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation’s Mission Road Safety Campaign. Its initial phase promoted responsible pet ownership through educational seminars, free anti-rabies vaccinations, deworming, and spay-and-neuter services.
NLEX said it will continue implementing measures to prevent animal intrusion, including daily perimeter fence inspections, reinforced drainage culverts, and partnerships with neighboring barangays to promote responsible pet ownership.
