MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Efforts to resolve Manila’s increasing traffic chaos have gained momentum with the planned construction of two new expressways, expected to significantly alleviate congestion and transform transport links. The Southern Access Link Expressway (Salex) and the Northern Access Link Expressway (Nalex) represent ambitious road infrastructure projects aiming to address the chronic gridlock plaguing the capital.
Valued at approximately £4.1 billion combined, Salex will feature elevated sections of the Manila Skyway and the Shoreline expressway, with its construction costing around £2.1 billion. It is anticipated to resolve longstanding traffic issues which have impeded growth and mobility for Manila’s estimated 113,000 residents per square mile, the densest population globally.
Nalex, with a construction cost of £2 billion, is set to improve connectivity between the New Manila International Airport and Metro Manila's surrounding areas - the first phase will connect Tarlac City and Pampanga to the capital. Both expressways are slated to be part of the Greater Capital Region Integrated Expressways, aiming to create seamless connections across the metropolitan area.
Construction is projected to commence in the first quarter of 2025, with completion expected within three years. The Philippine regulatory body approved the project under San Miguel Corporation (SMC), which has also been tasked with developing the Skyway Stage 4 project, providing alternate routings from Parañaque to Quezon City.
Interestingly, SMC announced rising costs for the Skyway project, with estimates now reaching £761 million, up from the previously forecasted £617 million. Upon completion, the 20-mile route will feature three lanes in each direction and 28 ramps, drastically reducing travel times from two hours to just 30 minutes between Bicutan and the Batasan area of Quezon City.
Alongside these infrastructure developments, the Philippines is witnessing rapid advancement in the renewable energy sector. A recent BloombergNEF report highlighted the country's leap from 20th to 2nd place globally for attractiveness to renewable energy investments. This notable shift reflects the government's proactive approach to enhancing its renewable energy portfolio, with plans to increase its share of renewable energy from 22% to 35% by 2030.
A groundbreaking policy change allowing 100% foreign ownership of renewable projects has prompted international interest, attracting significant investment from foreign players. This open market strategy positions the Philippines as an appealing destination for sustainable initiatives, overcoming barriers posed by competitors, including India, known for its established energy sector.
Meeting the ambitious renewable energy targets, the Department of Energy is addressing several challenges, particularly the modernization of the existing energy grid and ensuring financing channels for smaller developers. Innovations, particularly those related to energy storage and smart technology deployment, are becoming imperative for seamless integration of solar and wind power within the national grid.
With the Philippines at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution, investors are encouraged to explore potential partnerships with local firms, fostering unique insights and facilitating the successful implementation of advanced, sustainable energy solutions.
Public infrastructure and renewable investments are increasingly interconnected; as these expressway projects take shape, there is the potential to create not only improved transportation networks but also efficient energy systems, fostering economic growth across multiple sectors.
Manila's historical significance as one of the most populous urban areas emerges alongside its reputation as a burgeoning tourist destination featuring colonial-era landmarks and lush green parks like Rizal Park. The recent infrastructure developments signal the beginning of a transformative phase, with enhanced connectivity promising to bolster both the local economy and the environment.
On the horizon, strategies and synergies between infrastructure and energy development are perceived to play pivotal roles as the country aims for sustainable progress. Stakeholders are lining up to capitalize on the wave of advancements as the Philippines sets out to redefine its narrative in the global energy and development conversations.
Filipinos are witnessing change as their nation pivots toward technological innovation and sustainable practices, promising to reshape the future.
With clearer skies over Metro Manila, the future looks promising as the integration of transport and energy transition is about to create new pathways toward sustainable living.