SCTEX Clark-Porac segment now open

The state-owned Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) announced  that the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) Clark-Porac segment is now open to motorists following the completion of the Bailey bridge that  links to the Pasig-Potrero Bridge.

BCDA President and CEO Arnel Paciano D. Casanova said the SCTEX Clark-Porac segment was opened on September 10 at 2:00 p.m.

Earlier, Casanova noted the importance of the SCTEX in the socio-economic growth and development of  Central Luzon being the main artery in the delivery of goods and services in the region.  “That is why the BCDA and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)  made sure that the closed segment of the toll road be open to traffic at the least possible time without compromising the safety of the motorists,”  he said.

Casanova noted that the 49-meter Bailey bridge is just a remedial measure to make the Clark-Porac segment accessible to motorists. “Our challenge is to start repairing the damaged approach leading to the Pasig-Potrero for the long term,” he said. He added that the BCDA engineers are now drawing up the plans for the permanent  solution to repair the damage approach.

For his part, BCDA manager for SCTEX Services Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang said the  Bailey bridge will be open first to Class 1 or light vehicles only.  He added that after  stabilization of the support base of the Bailey bridge, given favorable weather conditions,  it is targeted to be open to Class 2 and  Class 3 vehicles in the next two weeks.  “We are doing this to ensure the safety of the motorists,” Bingcang said.

In the meantime, Class 2 and Class 3 vehicles coming from Manila or Tarlac going to Subic/Tipo, are advised to exit at the Clark South Interchange then take the Clark Friendship-Manibaug Road going to Porac Interchange (to enter SCTEX).

Likewise, Class 2 and Class 3 vehicles from Subic/Tipo going to Tarlac or Manila may exit at Porac Interchange then take the Manibaug-Friendship Road going to Clark South Interchange (to enter SCTEX).

The Bailey bridge has a maximum capacity of 25 tons that can accommodate up to Class 3 vehicles.
Construction of the Bailey bridge was done by the DPWH and the BCDA in a span of nine days.
Last August 19, the strong river current initiated by the heavy downpour  during the height of Typhoon Maring set off  a massive erosion of up to 10 hectares of land from the banks of the Pasig-Potrero river that caused the damage to a segment of the toll road that serves as an approach  to the Pasig-Potrero Bridge.

For traffic updates, you may call the SCTEX hotline at 0920-96SCTEX or 3-5000.