MPTC, SMC officially inks deal to build CBEX and NBEX

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MPTC Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan (right), signs a Memorandum of Agreement with
SMC Chief Executive Officer Ramon S. Ang (left) to design, build, and operate CBEX and NBEX.




Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (“MPTC”), the tollways infrastructure unit of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation and San Miguel Corporation (“SMC”) announced the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (“MOA”) to design, build and operate the 87.96-kilometer Cavite-Batangas Expressway (“CBEX”) and Nasugbu-Bauan Expressway (“NBEX”). The project aims to connect MPTC's Cavite-Laguna Expressway (“CALAX”) to Bauan, Batangas, making travel easier and more convenient for motorists.

The signing ceremony, led by MPTC Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan and SMC Chief Executive Officer Ramon S. Ang, along with Chaye Cabal Revilla and SMC SVP, Infrastructure Business Head Lorenzo Formoso III, marks a significant milestone in the development of the P72 billion CBEX and NBEX project.

The MOA signing underscores the commitment of both toll road companies to deliver world-class expressways that will serve the needs of millions of motorists and commuters in the CALABARZON region. Throughout the project, MPTC and SMC will work closely with the Philippine government, local communities, and stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and responsible development that aligns with the country's infrastructure goals.

“Our shared commitment to nation-building has led us to this historic collaboration. Together, we aim to deliver world-class road networks that will serve as arteries of progress, growth and development for our country and the Filipino people. This collaboration stands as a testament to what we can achieve when we are united in purpose,” SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang said.

"Together with SMC, we envisage a future where our CBEX and NBEX can help pave the way for connectivity and economic growth in the CALABARZON region. We look forward to leveraging on our respective strengths for the realization of this vital infrastructure project.” said MPTC Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan

Under the agreement, MPTC and SMC will jointly undertake the construction, operation and maintenance of the 88-kilometer-long toll road projects. This will encompass two vital expressways: one is the 27.06-kilometer CBEX that will establish a crucial link connecting CALAX’ Silang (Aguinaldo) Interchange to Nasugbu, Batangas, while the 60.90-kilometer NBEX will provide seamless connectivity from Nasugbu to Bauan, Batangas. The groundbreaking is scheduled for 2024 and CBEX and NBEX are expected to be completed and open to the public in 2027.

The route will traverse the townships of Silang, Amadeo, Tagaytay, Indang, Mendez, and Alfonso in Cavite before crossing into Nasugbu and finally reaching Bauan, Batangas.

In 2018, MPTC presented a proposal for the 50.4-kilometer Cavite-Tagaytay-Batangas Expressway (CTBEX) project to the Department of Public Works and Highways and was granted the original proponent status. Similarly, SMC's unsolicited proposal for the CBEX and NBEX was approved by the Cavite and Batangas government. Both projects share the common goal of connecting the provinces of Cavite and Batangas through Tagaytay City and MPTC and SMC have come together as partners in this significant venture.

Both MPTC and SMC share a common goal of contributing to the development of road infrastructure and enhancing the transportation sector in the country. Aside from CALAX, MPTC currently holds the concession for several vital expressways, including the Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX), its C5 Link Segment, the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), the Subic-Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), the NLEX Connector Road, and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) in Cebu. Whilst SMC holds the concession for crucial toll roads such as the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Skyway, NAIA Expressway (NAIAX), Star Tollway, Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX), and the Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway (MCX).

The implementation of the transaction is subject to completion of certain conditions, including the execution procurement relevant approvals and execution of definitive agreements.

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About Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (“MPTC”)

MPTC is the leading toll road concessionaire and operator in the Philippines. It manages and operates a network of expressways , contributing to the improvement of transportation infrastructure and connectivity in the country.



About San Miguel Corporation (“SMC”)

SMC is one of the largest and most diversified conglomerates in the Philippines. It operates businesses in various industries, including food and beverage, packaging, infrastructure and energy. The company is committed to nation building and contributing to the country’s progress through various infrastructure projects.

Easy Indoor Workout Routines: Stay Fit at Home Regardless of Weather Conditions

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Santé lists activities you can do at home when you don’t want to hit the gym

With the changing weather conditions, maintaining good health and fitness has become increasingly important. Unpredictable weather patterns can often hinder individuals from visiting the gym or engaging in outdoor activities, especially now that the rainy season is here.

Recognizing this challenge, Santé, a premier natural health and wellness product and service provider, introduces a range of indoor workout routines, ensuring individuals can stay fit and healthy regardless of the weather. These exercises are easy, convenient, and require minimal equipment since they can be performed in the comfort of your home, allowing individuals to maintain their fitness goals.



Here are five easy indoor exercises recommended by Santé:

Stationary walking. This exercise serves as an excellent alternative to outdoor walks, requiring only a pair of shoes and some uplifting music. It is a perfect starting point for individuals looking to incorporate regular exercise into their routine, even during monsoon season. Stationary walking is also a safe exercise option for pregnant women.

On-spot jogging. This fun activity allows individuals to burn calories like normal jogging, without leaving their homes. All that is needed is a pair of running shoes and comfortable clothing for unrestricted movement. Whether enjoying a favorite sports match or listening to music, on-spot jogging provides a convenient way to engage in cardio exercise.

Planking, squats, pull-ups. Strength training exercises using body weight can be performed at home and offer benefits such as improved bone density, increased muscle mass, and effective weight management. Exercises like planking, squats, chest press, pull-ups, and lunges provide an opportunity to strengthen muscles without the need for special equipment. For those seeking additional resistance, affordable exercise equipment such as exercise balls, resistance bands, or weights can be incorporated.

Mat Pilates. This activity is a holistic exercise form that focuses on concentration, precise movement patterns, and controlled breathing. By engaging abdominal and lower back muscles, Pilates helps strengthen the core, improves flexibility and posture, and promotes relaxation. All that is required is a mat and comfortable clothing to fully enjoy the benefits of this exercise.

Yoga. This is an excellent exercise that enhances flexibility, promotes inner peace, and aids in weight loss. Practicing yoga indoors on a yoga mat, wearing comfortable clothing, allows individuals to experience various poses and breathing exercises that contribute to overall well-being.

Aside from engaging in indoor exercises, it is important to fuel the body with healthy drinks. Santé emphasizes the significance of consuming nutritious beverages, such as Santé's Fit N' Trim. This 3-in-1 fat burner and energy booster serves as your reliable fitness partner.

Santé's Fit N' Trim contains key ingredients, such as L-Carnitine, which facilitates the transportation of fats into cells for energy, green tea that stimulates calorie burning and reduces body fat, and organic young barley grass that aids in weight loss.

"At Santé, we are dedicated to helping individuals live healthier lives by providing natural health and wellness products. So, if you want to take control of your diet and physical activity, Santé's Fit N' Trim is an excellent choice," says Joey Marcelo, CEO of Santé. "With organic barley grass providing fiber to keep you feeling fuller for longer, and the combined benefits of green tea, L-Carnitine, and lemon, Fit N' Trim supports weight loss and enhances physical performance."

Headquartered in the Philippines and with a presence in New Zealand and seven other countries, Santé has been a prime mover in the health and wellness industry for 15 years. The company is engaged in the direct selling and retailing of premier natural health and wellness products and services. Santé also offers additional facilities, including a fitness and rehabilitation center and leisure and recreational facilities, staying true to its thrust of promoting a healthy lifestyle.

To experience the benefits of Santé's Fit N' Trim and explore the wide range of Santé health and wellness offerings, visit mySanté.com




About Santé

Santé is one of the leading global manufacturers of certified organic barley grass grown and harvested from New Zealand. With its 15 years of expertise, the company has been a prime mover in the health and wellness industry as it continues its mission to help people live better lives. Santé is engaged in the direct selling and retailing of premier natural health and wellness products and services. The company also has other offerings, including a fitness and rehabilitation center and leisure and recreational facilities, staying true to its thrust of promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Headquartered in the Philippines, Santé is in New Zealand and 7 other countries.

CAVITEX to implement new toll rates effective August 21

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The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), the government agency that regulates all toll roads in the Philippines has recently approved the 2017 periodic toll petition of joint venture partners Cavitex Infrastructure Corporation (CIC) and Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), for the toll rate adjustments in the 14-kilometer Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX).

Under the Toll Operation Agreement between the TRB, CIC, and PRA, the CAVITEX toll rates are allowed to be periodically adjusted every three (3) years. Exercising their right, CIC and PRA filed their Petition for Approval of Periodic Toll Rate Adjustment for R-1 Expressway (Seaside to Zapote) and R-1 Expressway Extension, Segment 4 (Zapote to Kawit) before the TRB in 2017.

Upon careful consideration and diligent review of the submissions, the TRB issued its Resolution granting the Petition and allowing the implementation of the provisionally approved toll rates.

 

With this, starting midnight on August 21, 2023, CAVITEX motorists traveling from MIAA Exit to Longos, Bacoor (and vice versa) would be charged the following VAT-inclusive rates per vehicle class at the Parañaque Toll Plaza: Php 35.00 for Class 1, Php 70.00 for Class 2, and Php 104.00 for Class 3. Meanwhile, motorists traversing Longos, Bacoor to Kawit (and vice versa) would be charged at the Kawit Toll Plaza with Php 73.00 for Class 1, Php 146.00 for Class 2, and Php 219.00 for Class 3.

Through the years, CIC and PRA remain dedicated to enhancing and maintaining the CAVITEX, continuously striving to provide a seamless and safe travel experience for all motorists. They have jointly undertaken various enhancements, including a full asphalt overlay across the entire stretch of the expressway, the construction of the Pacific fly-over and Marina left turning facility, the widening of Las Pinas, Wawa, and Paranaque bridges, and regular heavy maintenance works, to ensure optimal road quality. To enhance the efficiency of its toll collection system, the toll road operator has implemented Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) technology. This advanced system utilizes smart cameras to instantly recognize and capture vehicle license plates at all toll booths, enabling seamless and fast-track cashless transactions. These improvements have greatly contributed to the safety and convenience of the 160,000 average daily motorists who rely on CAVITEX.

Mindful of the effect of the toll rate adjustment, CIC will be reactivating the Abante Card program. CIC has initiated the program specifically to support public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers who ply the CAVITEX thoroughfare, including jeepneys, UV Express, and buses. Through the program, PUV operators and drivers can enjoy the old toll rates, helping them sustain their businesses and facilitate affordable transportation options for commuters.

"We recognize the impact of the toll increase on Class 1 and Class 2 PUV drivers. That's why we're reactivating our Abante Card program to provide some relief during this transition. With the Abante Card, PUV drivers will have the opportunity to adjust and enjoy the old toll rates for a period of about three months. We believe this program will help alleviate the financial burden on our valued PUV drivers and provide them with a smoother transition during this time. We remain committed to supporting the PUV community and ensuring their continued success on the road," said MPTC President and CEO Rogelio Singson.

The toll reprieve program has been designed to be user-friendly and convenient for PUV operators and drivers. Through a simple RFID enrollment process, operators can easily register their accounts in coordination with their respective transport organizations. Once enrolled, the program will automatically apply the reprieve for a duration of 90 days, starting from the first day of the implementation of the new toll rates.

Cavitex Infrastructure Corporation is a concessionaire of the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation, the leading tollway and mobility service provider in the country. Aside from CAVITEX, MPTC also holds concession rights for Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX), North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark Expressway (SCTEX), NLEX Connector, and Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX)




Additional Information:

The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) is the government agency that regulates all toll roads in the Philippines. It was established through Presidential Decree No. 1112. It is governed by the Board composed of the following: Secretary of Department of Transportation (DOTr) as Chairman; Secretaries and heads of the following agencies as Members: Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH); Department of Finance (DOF); National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA); and A representative from the private sector to be appointed by the President.