SMC Infrastructure has placed its quick response teams on heightened alert to provide assistance to motorists and ensure that any sudden downpour brought by Kristine does not impact any part of the carriageway along its toll network, which includes the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), STAR Tollway, the Skyway System, and the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).

“Since the onset of Tropical Storm Kristine, our teams have observed isolated rain along our expressway network at different times, and water immediately flowed out of the carriageway through our drainage system,” SMC chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang said. “In the previous months, we have instructed our maintenance teams to ensure our outfalls are clear of any debris and garbage so that any amount of rainwater can drain fast.”

Aside from clearing drainage systems, Ang said the company’s larger river cleanup initiative has also contributed significantly to increasing the carrying capacity of the San Isidro River in San Pedro City, Laguna, where a significant portion of floodwaters from SLEX drains.

This river cleanup program, called “Better Rivers PH,” has removed nearly 8 million cubic meters of garbage and silt from over 132 kilometers of waterways since 2020. This helps reduce flood risk in nearby cities and towns.

At present, the river cleanup teams are focusing on the Pampanga River, waterways in Biñan City, Laguna, Navotas City, and around the NAIA area.

SMC reminds everyone to dispose of their garbage properly, as it often clogs drains and waterways, leading to flooding.

Motorists needing assistance along SMC expressways may call the following hotlines: