A few months ago, we reported about the completion of Skyway Stage 3’s structural works and its imminent opening this December. But as the last month of the year came around, the elevated roadway remained off-limits. However, tollway operator San Miguel Corporation is finally giving motorists limited access to the much-awaited expressway.

According to SMC president Ramon S. Ang, Skyway Stage 3 will be partially opened to the public tomorrow, December 29. While there is no mention of which on- and off-ramps will be operational, the chief executive said that up to four lanes can be used. He further added that all seven lanes of the 18km stretch from Buendia to NLEX will be opened in their entirety by January 14 next year.

Ang explained that one possible reason for the delay was the recent spell of bad weather, which has severely hampered the curing process for the concrete. This, in turn, affected the schedule for asphalt-laying, which is needed to ensure the quality and the safety of the structure. Fortunately, SMC’s promise of Skyway Stage 3 being toll-free for a whole month remains valid.

This is a very important development for all motorists given the worsening traffic situation in Metro Manila lately. Hopefully, Skyway Stage 3 is one effective solution to ease the burden of Filipino drivers in their daily commute.