NATION

SCTEX expansion boosts Central Luzon connectivity

Raffy Ayeng · Aug 18, 2026, 1:43 AM

The expansion of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway Hacienda Luisita Interchange is seen as a way to provide smooth travel. — Photograph courtesy of Provincial Government of Tarlac

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has officially broken ground on the P172.1-million expansion of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) Hacienda Luisita Interchange to enhance regional connectivity across Central Luzon.

In a statement, the BCDA said the project aims to strengthen Tarlac’s links to major economic hubs, facilitating smoother travel for residents, businesses, workers and commuters.

BCDA president and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang stressed that the infrastructure upgrade will benefit the broader community beyond BCDA-administered land.

“This project is about connecting people and businesses to opportunities,” Bingcang said. “The Hacienda Luisita Interchange will serve not only BCDA properties, but also residents, workers, businesses, and communities across Tarlac and the wider Central Luzon region.”

He added that improving strategic transport links makes it easier for residents to travel, for businesses to transport cargo, and for new investments to enter local communities.

The expansion project features several infrastructure upgrades, including a 624-meter two-lane access entry ramp heading toward Baguio City and the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway.

Additionally, construction involves a 242-meter single-lane exit ramp and a 681-meter two-lane access exit ramp equipped with supporting structures, both serving Tarlac City and adjacent municipalities.

Scheduled for completion within 240 calendar days — or around the second quarter of 2027 — the scope of work also encompasses a new toll plaza, drainage facilities, slope protection, utility integration, streetlights, and other essential site structures.

Tarlac Governor Christian Tell A. Yap welcomed the development, noting that enhanced infrastructure will bolster the province’s ongoing economic progress.

Once completed, the upgraded interchange is expected to streamline access to major commercial and industrial centers across the region, including the Luisita Industrial Park, Ayala Land’s Crescendo, and Aboitiz InfraCapital’s TARI Estate.