Marcos: TPLEX extension to improve tourism, economy in Luzon

The Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) Extension Project is seen to drive more tourism and economic activities to the northern part of Luzon, President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. said on Wednesday.

Marcos said the TPLEX became a catalyst of economic growth in Central and Northern Luzon when it was completed, noting that the extension would generate an even greater flurry of activity in the Philippines's largest island.

''Once finished, this extension will reduce the travel time between Rosario and San Juan from the current 90-minute travel time to about 40 minutes, resulting in smoother and safer journeys for those who wish to go to [and from] La Union, and the Ilocos and Cordillera Regions,'' Marcos said in his speech at the presentation of the signed concession agreement of the TPLEX extension project.

''Aside from bringing in tourists and economic activities more quickly to the northern part of the country, it will also bring resources and food faster to the southern parts of Luzon,'' Marcos added.

The President then appealed to San Miguel Holdings Corporation to complete the TPLEX Extension Segment 1 by 2028 and all other sections as scheduled.

He also wants to ensure that ''every person involved in this project — whether in the office or in the construction zone — will work with determination and integrity, day in and day out.''

''As I said earlier, “Build Better More” is more than just a tagline, just as this project is more than another item to add to our list of accomplishments,'' Marcos said.

''It is a chance for each of us to build a Bagong Pilipinas that would bring comfort and prosperity to our people and the generations to come,'' he added. —RF, GMA Integrated News