A LONG-AWAITED dream has finally come true for the people of San Pedro, Laguna with the ceremonial inauguration of the SLEX Northbound Entry-Exit Interchange — a transformative infrastructure project that promises to ease traffic, boost mobility, and unlock economic opportunities in the region.
A long-awaited dream for San Pedro residents finally came true with the completion of the SLEX Northbound Entry-Exit Interchange, a project that underscores the city’s commitment to modern infrastructure, seamless mobility, and regional development.
Laguna Gov. Sol Aragones, DPWH Sec. Manuel Bonoan, DOTr Sec. Vince Dizon, along with some lical officials attended the cetemonial inauguration of the interchange.
The interchange, now fully operational, features newly built gravel and concrete roads along with a toll plaza, all constructed in accordance with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) standards and specifications. Initiated in response to the growing clamor of residents for a northbound exit given the existing southbound-only access the project marks a significant step toward alleviating traffic congestion and enhancing road accessibility.
“This is one of the most modern interchanges,” declared DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, emphasizing the quality and innovation involved in the project. Sec. Vince Dizon of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) added, “This is for the convenience ng ating mga motorista at commuters.”
The project was launched in July 2018, during the groundbreaking ceremony led by DPWH and other key stakeholders. It was made possible through the collaboration between DPWH, the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), San Miguel Holdings Corporation, and the local government of San Pedro, which actively sought funding through the efforts of former DPWH Secretary Mark Villar.
Mayor Arlene Arcillas explained the rationale behind the initiative. “Madaling pumasok pero mahirap lumabas, kaya sabi ko, gagawa tayo ng exit sa San Pedro.” Gov. Sol Aragones expressed heartfelt gratitude. “Gusto ko lang ho magpasalamat sa mga taong kumatawan upang maisakatuparan ang proyektong ito.” She also acknowledged the efforts of Mayor Arlene Arcillas, Congressman Dan Fernandez, and Congresswoman Ann Matibag. “Salamat sa pagbubukas ng oportunidad. Salamat sa pagiging tulay ng kaganapan sa pagpapaunlad ng turismo ng Laguna,” she added.
Congresswoman Ann Matibag emphasized the project’s public service spirit, saying, “Ang proyektong ito ay alay namin sa inyo.” Raul Eduardo C. Romulo, Chief Finance Officer of San Miguel Holdings Corp., highlighted the impact on residents and commuters: “The San Pedro NorthBound Plaza should help the city improve its accessibility and mobility, especially workers in Manila and South Luzon who call San Pedro their home.”
Hon. Jun Ynion, ABC President, described the interchange as “a project that represents the commitment of enhancing connectivity and accessibility in our community.” Former Mayor Lourdes Cataquis and current Mayor Art Mercado likewise extended their appreciation, recognizing the multi-sectoral effort that led to the project’s success.
The San Pedro Northbound Interchange now stands as a symbol of united governance, modern engineering, and public-centered development one that redefines the city’s entryway to progress.
With this new gateway, San Pedro is not only easing daily travel for thousands of motorists but also opening broader opportunities for local economic growth, tourism, and regional integration cementing its place as a vital link between the capital and Southern Luzon
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