San fernando: The toll rebate for motorists traversing the San Fernando-Pulilan stretch of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) has been lifted effective noon on Wednesday, following the full reopening of lanes at the San Simon Interchange and Tulaoc section.

According to Philippines News Agency, NLEX Corporation announced that all three lanes in both directions were reopened to all types of vehicles as of 8:50 a.m. Tuesday. The rebate was initially implemented upon the directive of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) due to flooding conditions in the area, but will continue to offer temporary toll exemption for provincial buses.

"NLEX continues to undertake flood mitigation measures, including dredging of the Tulaoc River and clearing and improvement works along the NLEX embankment, to improve water flow and help mitigate flooding in the area," stated NLEX Corporation.

In a separate social media post, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) confirmed that traffic is now flowing smoothly after the reopening of the lanes that had been submerged in floods. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. had previously ordered DPWH to assist NLEX Corporation in addressing the flooding issue and preventing its recurrence.

The DOTr had earlier secured free toll for vehicles traveling between Pulilan, Bulacan, and San Fernando, Pampanga starting September 2, as heavy traffic ensued on portions of NLEX due to flooding at Tulaoc Bridge in San Simon, Pampanga. The DOTr, through the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), also instructed NLEX Corp. to send advisories through direct SMS, text messages, and other accessible platforms to provide rerouting options via variable message signs (VMS) at least three hours before expected rainfall and traffic closures.