By NG Seruela
Business tycoon Ramon S. Ang announced on his Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/smcramonang/posts/283774763377568) that they are planning to develop a “bus rapid transit or a high-capacity P2P [point-to-point] system” on their Skyway toll road system.
In his statement issued on Monday (April 26), he said the route will initially run between Susana Heights and Balintawak.
“This has been our plan all along – for all our elevated expressways to directly benefit not just private motorists, but mostly our commuters as well.”
Ang said the primary purpose of their elevated toll roads is to “divert vehicles from public roads to ease traffic for all.” However, he pointed out that the bus-based transit system will “maximize the benefits.”
“But a bus-based transit system will further maximize the benefits to the public and make commutes faster, easier, safer and more convenient for many. Those who drive daily may even opt to commute, further easing traffic and reducing pollution.”
“This will be a game-changer, one that will transform mass transit in Metro Manila,” he added.
The 18-kilometer Skyway Stage 3 project became operational early this year. It cuts the two-hour travel time from the North Luzon Expressway to the South Luzon Expressway to only 30 minutes, and the drive from Makati City to Quezon City to only 20 minutes. -jlo
