Palace cool to free NLEX toll proposal, warns it could worsen traffic

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 02, 2026

Photo courtesy: Top Gear Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has expressed reservations over calls to temporarily waive toll fees on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), saying the move could attract more vehicles and further worsen congestion while portions of the expressway remain affected by flooding.

The proposal gained attention after motorists endured hours-long traffic jams along NLEX, particularly in Tulaoc and San Simon, Pampanga, where floodwaters affected several lanes following heavy rains and rising water levels in the Pampanga River.

During a Palace briefing on Tuesday, September 1, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro described the proposed toll holiday as a “good initiative” but questioned whether it would actually help motorists while traffic conditions remained difficult.

Castro said making NLEX toll-free could encourage even more motorists to use the expressway, potentially adding to the congestion.

“Magandang adhikain ‘yung libre, pero kung ililibre natin, mas maraming sasakyan ang papasok, mas lalong traffic,” Castro said.

She instead advised motorists to temporarily avoid NLEX where possible until conditions improve.

Castro also said NLEX management is in a better position to determine the appropriate immediate measures, stressing that the operator is aware of what happened and its responsibilities to motorists.

Asked whether President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would order sanctions against the NLEX operator over the prolonged congestion, Castro said punishment was not the administration’s immediate priority.

She said the President is currently focused on providing relief and assistance to affected motorists rather than imposing sanctions. The possibility of sanctions has yet to be discussed with the President, according to the Palace.

NLEX Corporation reported continued heavy traffic in Tulaoc and the San Simon Interchange on September 1, with some lanes restricted because of water buildup. Some northbound entry and exit points were also temporarily closed because of flooding on local roads.

The tollway operator has since said it is working on a longer-term solution to recurring flooding in the area, including plans to raise the northbound and southbound pavements in the Tulaoc, San Simon section after the elevation of the Tulaoc Bridge is completed.