Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) is taking the wheel in championing road safety for children as part of its commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth. Through its business units — NLEX Corporation, MPT South, Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway Corporation (CCLEC), and MPT Mobility — the company continues to integrate child rights and road safety into its core initiatives, ensuring young generations have a safer and healthier environment to thrive.

“As a company dedicated to economic and social development, we aim to uphold children’s rights by creating a secure environment where they can pursue their dreams,” said Atty. Cynthia Casino, MPTC’s Chief Corporate Governance and Head of Sustainability. “Our mission is to build safer roads and empower children to lead healthy, happy, and productive lives.”

MPTC’s efforts include educational campaigns that teach children the importance of road safety. NLEX Corporation recently launched the picture book Ang Bida ng Kalsada at the National Library of the Philippines. Designed for Grades 3-6 students, the book uses engaging stories and illustrations to highlight responsible road use. Over 2,000 copies have been distributed across public schools and organizations in host communities.

Similarly, MPT South reintroduced Bayani ng Kalsada (Bayani Ka), an updated book on road signs and expressway safety. The initiative has reached over 1,000 students, with more than 420 copies donated to schools, libraries, and other institutions.

On 20 November, in celebration of World Children’s Day, MPTC illuminated several iconic structures in blue, symbolizing its pledge to create safer roads for children. This included NLEX Corporation’s headquarters in Caloocan, the NLEX Drive and Dine in Valenzuela, MPT South’s South Hub in Cavite, and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway.

The company also used its expressway billboards and online platforms to spread awareness about child road safety, amplifying its commitment to ensuring a safer future for young Filipinos.

Institutionalizing children rights

This year, MPTC furthered its advocacy by embedding Child Rights and Business Principles (CRBP) into its organizational framework. In partnership with the Ateneo Human Rights Center, MPTC hosted a four-day workshop with representatives from sister companies PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications. Looking ahead, the company plans to conduct a Child Rights Impact Assessment (CRIA) by 2025 to solidify its commitment to child safety.

MPTC’s child-focused campaigns have not gone unnoticed. The company has received accolades, including the Department of Health’s Healthy Pilipinas Gold Award, the Asia CEO Awards, and the ESG Business Awards 2024.

By empowering children and advocating for road safety, MPTC remains a steadfast partner in creating a safer, more inclusive future for the next generation.