SMC begins PLEX construction to connect towns and boost investment

San Miguel Corp. (SMC) has begun construction on the 76.80-kilometer Pangasinan Link Expressway (PLEX), which will connect towns in Pangasinan to the company's planned New Manila International Airport in Bulacan.

The project, initiated through a toll concession and joint venture agreement signed last year between SMC and the provincial government of Pangasinan, aims to boost investment and job opportunities in the province.

Phase 1 of PLEX, covering 42.76 kilometers from TPLEX to Lingayen with three segments (Binalonan to Manaoag, Manaoag to Calasiao, and Calasiao to Lingayen) plus a 2.39-km spur road in Calasiao, is expected to reduce travel time significantly.

Governor Ramon Guico III emphasized that the expressway will serve as a backbone for provincial development, enhancing accessibility and fostering growth in other infrastructure projects like the Bolinao airport and seaport developments.

SMC president Ramon Ang noted that PLEX would connect to TPLEX and provide access to the planned New Manila International Airport in Bulacan, citing economic benefits seen with previous expressway constructions.