[ Manila Bulletin Online ] August 19, 2008
By JUN VELASCO
DAGUPAN CITY – Mayor Alipio Fernandez Jr. lauded yesterday the full operation of the 94-kilometer Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), saying this will set off a new wave of eco-tourism development activities in Northern and Central Luzon.
The Clark-Tarlac segment officially opened last July 25th, while the Subic-Clark portion began commercial operation last April 28th.
Fernandez, former Immigration commissioner and city mayors league president, cited the big number of motorists now using the expressway since it opened last April. At least half-million motorists have opted to use SCTEX due to its many benefits, the mayor noted.
Data show that during the summer holidays, most of the motorists found SCTEX as a fast, convenient access to Subic and Clark from other areas in Luzon, including Metro Manila and Baguio.
Meanwhile, Ilocos Regional Development Council Chairman Salvador T. Duque observed that the modern infrastructure facility which provides fast, safe, and convenient travel is an integral part of the country’s tourism program.
"I expect the upward trend in traffic volume trend to continue because there are now more entertainment and leisure choices made available to travelers visiting North and Central Luzon."
"Visitors who wish to stay in Subic, for example, can take a 45-minute trip via SCTEX to events in Angeles City and return on the same day. Those who are staying in Clark and nearby areas can go to the resorts in Zambales and return to their hotels on the same day without hassle," Duque said.
With the new expressway, time of travel from Manila to Zambales and Bataan was reduced to almost half the time.
