DOTr orders NLEX to waive toll fees in Marilao northbound

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has directed the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Corp. to immediately suspend the collection of toll in the Marilao northbound segment of the expressway, following the fatal accident Wednesday when a truck hit the Marilao Interchange Bridge anew. 

In a notice to explain and directive addressed to NLEX Corp. executives, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon expressed “profound concern and disappointment over the recurring incidents of overheight vehicles striking critical infrastructure” on NLEX, emphasizing that the recent accident was an “unacceptable failure of operational diligence" on NLEX’s part. 

“Your continued failure to implement comprehensive preventive protocols, including but not limited to real-time height monitoring systems, strict enforcement of entry screening for overheight vehicles, and adequate physical deterrents and warnings, demonstrates an alarming lack of proactive risk management and a grave breach of duty to the public,” the letter read. 

As such, the DOTr ordered NLEX to waive the toll fees on the affected segment in the Marilao area should there be sustained heavy traffic congestion and until the damaged bridge has been fully restored and certified as safe by government safety inspectors. 

The NLEX Corp. was also directed to submit a written explanation within three working days upon receipt of the notice to explain why the DOTr should not impose administrative sanctions, including possible suspension or modification of their toll collection privileges for non-compliance with safety obligations.

Likewise, the company was tasked to provide financial, medical, and logistical assistance to the family of the victims. 

The NLEX Corp. was also directed to submit within 10 working days a concrete and verifiable safety improvement plan, covering the full NLEX corridor. 

Failure to comply with the directives may result in administrative penalties, suspension of toll collection rights, and revocation or amendment of NLEX’s operating authority under the Toll Regulatory Boards and the DOTr. 

Based on the initial investigation of the Marilao police, the trailer truck passed the Meycauayan exit to go back to Malabon, but it hit the interchange bridge on the northbound lane when it arrived in Marilao. 

A beam from the bridge fell and hit the vehicle behind the truck, resulting in the death of a 54-year-old passenger and injuries of six others, including a two-year-old kid.

In a statement, NLEX Corp. said it is cooperating with DOTr, the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the investigation of the incident.

“We are committed to ensuring that appropriate measures are taken moving forward,” NLEX Corp. said.

“We are truly saddened by this incident, and our hearts go out to all those affected and their families during this difficult time. We commit our support and assistance as they navigate through this challenging situation,” it added.

NLEX also noted that it has implemented measures to enhance its security and enforcement against violators.

“We want to emphasize the importance of following all traffic rules and regulations for the safety of everyone on the road. It is a shared responsibility to protect lives, prevent accidents, and ensure that public infrastructure remains safe and functional,” it said. — With a report from Mariel Celine Serquiña/RSJ/RF, GMA Integrated News