DPWH, SMHC sign P23.36B contract for TPLEX extension DED

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and San Miguel Holdings Corp. (SMHC) have signed a contract agreement for the P23.36 billion detailed engineering design (DED) of the 59.4-kilometer Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) extension.

Construction of the TPLEX extension is targeted to commence by July 2025, with the first of its three segments expected to be completed by 2028.

The TPLEX extension will span from Rosario, La Union to San Juan, La Union, with its segments covering routes from Rosario to Tubao, Tubao to Naguilian, and Naguilian to San Juan.

This new tollway aims to reduce travel time from Rosario to San Juan to 40 minutes from the current one hour and 30 minutes.

The project is intended to provide additional access routes linking the Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, and Metro Manila.

Following the completion of the DED, the project will be presented to the National Economic and Development Authority Board for approval of financing and execution.