DOTr partners with SMC to build C6 expressway

The Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of National Defense (DND), Veterans Federation of the Philippines, and Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) have signed on Monday the Right-of-Way Usage Agreement (ROWUA) for the Southeast Metro Manila Expressway (SEMME) or C6 Expressway by San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Skyway Stage 4 Corporation (MMSS4).

Transport Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said the ROWUA signals another game-changing infrastructure initiative by declogging EDSA and other arterial roads, making land travel quicker and efficient.

“This 32.7-km toll road will create a much-needed alternate route from Parañaque to Quezon City, bypassing traffic-heavy roads and easing congestion along EDSA and other key corridors,” Sec. Bautista said during the signing ceremony.

The agreement will help facilitate the smooth construction of SEMME in portions traversing the property of Veterans Federation of the Philippines.

“With San Miguel Corporation and Philippine National Construction Corporation at the helm, this P45.29-billion project underscores our commitment to long-term solutions for urban mobility,” added Sec. Bautista.

Under a 30-year concession period, SEMME Phase 1 will traverse Parañaque, Taguig City, Taytay, Antipolo, Marikina City, and Quezon City, and is seen to decongest C5.

A combination of elevated and at-grade expressway, the toll road will benefit around 42,477 to 88,338 motorists per day, and reduce travel time from Bicutan to Batasan from 1 hour 50 minutes to 26 minutes.

Meanwhile, the DOTr likewise signed an agreement with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Convergence and Interface Coordination to streamline interface processes between the two agencies, and to speed up construction of transport projects nationwide.

The agreement lays the groundwork for improved access roads, proactive conflict resolution, and strategic collaboration under the DPWH-DOTr Kalsada Tungo sa Paliparan, Riles at Daungan (KATUPARAN) Convergence Program.

“With provisions covering clash identification, convergence programs, and performance evaluation, we are ensuring that transportation and public works efforts complement each other, maximizing efficiency and public benefit,” Sec. Bautista said.