Gov’t eyes new SCTEX interchange to spur Bataan economic growth

A proposed P495.35-million interchange is being studied to link the municipality of Hermosa in Bataan to the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), as part of broader efforts to expand access to emerging industrial and economic zones in Central Luzon.

In a joint statement, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) announced its collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), NLEX Corp., and the local government of Hermosa on the planned project.

According to the BCDA, the new interchange will serve as a vital access point connecting Bataan’s industrial estates and upcoming logistics zones with key economic corridors such as the Subic Bay Freeport, Clark Freeport Zone, and New Clark City.

“It’s more than just infrastructure—it’s a new gateway to economic opportunity for Central Luzon,” said BCDA president and CEO Joshua Bingcang. “The interchange will help drive industrial growth and generate employment by enhancing access to logistics and manufacturing centers.”

The new road link is also expected to improve connectivity to the Bataan Technology Park in Morong, which is slated to house the future headquarters of the Philippine Marine Corps.

The interchange forms part of the government’s SCTEX expansion and enhancement plan, aimed at improving traffic flow and supporting economic activity across the Luzon corridor.

The initiative supports the broader Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) concept—a key outcome of the 2024 Trilateral Leaders’ Summit between the Philippines, the United States, and Japan. The LEC aims to transform Luzon into a more attractive hub for investment, particularly in the manufacturing and electronics sectors.

Once completed, the Bataan interchange is expected to further anchor Central Luzon as a strategic trade and industrial node in the country’s economic roadmap.