San Miguel Corporation (SMC) announced Tuesday that the government has approved the Pasig River Expressway (PAREX) project, more than a year since it was first proposed by the company.

PAREX is a 19.37-km, six-lane elevated road that will run along the banks of the Pasig River — from Radial Road 10 in the City of Manila to C-6 road, also known as the future South East Metro Manila Expressway (SEMME) in Taguig.

It will be the first privately-funded road network in the country that “combines sustainability features with the functionality of a safe and efficient transport infrastructure that the country is sorely lacking in,” SMC said.

“This will be an inclusive, user-centered infrastructure that will integrate various modes of transportation beyond cars. It will have dedicated bike lanes, walkways, a bus rapid transit system, among others” Ramon Ang, company president, said.

Signing the Supplemental Toll Operations Agreement (STOA) signifying approval of the PAREX project are Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar, Department of Transportation (DoTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade, Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) Executive Director Alvin Carullo and SMC’s Ang.

Following government’s approval, Ang disclosed that SMC is tapping the firm of internationally-renowned architect, environment planner, and green urbanism advocate Arch. Felino Palafox Jr. to help in building the PAREX project.

“PAREX will also be for pedestrians and cyclists. It will not just be for motorized transportation and convenience, but also for maintaining our health and well-being. It will not just ‘beautify’ the surroundings--it will rehabilitate the Pasig River and inspire urban renewal in Metro Manila,” Ang added.

Once operational, PAREX will serve as the east-west connection linking up with Skyway 3 and SEMME, virtually making every major city in Metro Manila accessible via expressway.