BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
The dream of quicker travel between eastern and western Pangasinan is becoming a reality with the construction of the Pangasinan Link Expressway (PLEX), expected to significantly reduce travel time between Binalonan and Lingayen from over two hours to just 30 minutes.
The 42.76-kilometer expressway is one of the flagship projects of Pangasinan Governor Ramon V. Guico III, who envisions improved transportation and a stronger provincial economy.
“There will be growth in business and investments,” Governor Guico said. “There will be more jobs created, and travel will become much easier.”
The project is a joint initiative between the Pangasinan Provincial Government and San Miguel Holdings Corporation. Groundbreaking took place five months after the signing of the agreement.
Maria Luisa Elduayan of the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office said the expressway is expected to boost local tourism. “With the Pangasinan Link Expressway, we’ll be able to attract more tourists and offer more activities. This means more jobs for our people,” she said.
Local residents are also optimistic. Student Hansly Ramirez shared how the expressway could ease her daily commute. “I usually travel for two hours just to get to school. This will really help students like me who live far away,” she said.
Vendors and business owners are equally thankful. “This project will make it easier to transport our goods,” said exhibitor Shellacris Sao-an. Business owner Imelda Soriano added, “As a businesswoman, I really value time. We’re grateful to the governor for this initiative.”
Under the agreement, the provincial government will not spend public funds on construction.
Instead, revenue from PLEX will be shared between the province and San Miguel Corporation.
After 35 years, the expressway will be turned over to the provincial government.
