The proposed Lapu-Lapu Expressway (LLEX), valued at ₱4.8 billion, has cleared a crucial hurdle. In fact, the City Development Council (CDC) officially endorsed it as Lapu-Lapu City’s flagship infrastructure project during a full council meeting held on Thursday, May 21.
Chaired by Mayor Cindi King-Chan, the council gave its unanimous approval to the 12-kilometer elevated toll expressway. Moreover, the project will be carried out through a public-private partnership (PPP) between the city government and Lapu-Lapu Expressway Corp. (LLEX Corp.).
Zero Cost to the City Government
Above all, Mayor King-Chan reassured residents that the project would not burden public funds. “This landmark project is structured as a Public-Private Partnership,” she explained. “Consequently, it will be realized at absolutely zero cost to the City Government.”
Connecting Key Areas to Improve Mobility
The proposed four-lane skyway is designed to link the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) with the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and other vital zones in Lapu-Lapu City. As a result, it is expected to enhance mobility and accessibility for residents of barangays Pajac, Buaya, Bankal, Ibo, Pusok, and nearby communities.
According to Mark Anthony Bautista, head of the Lapu-Lapu City Public Information Office, the expressway will serve as an extension of the CCLEX corridor. Specifically, it will traverse the Babag area near the Gabi-Pilipog Road intersection.
“Actually, this is just an extension of the CCLEX from Cordova,” Bautista said in Cebuano. “However, it will pass through Babag, near the Gabi-Pilipog Road intersection. A flyover will be built near the CCLEX exit to avoid disrupting traffic at that intersection. Additionally, complementary road projects are already underway to accommodate the LLEX alignment.”
Local Support for Economic Growth
Meanwhile, Lapu-Lapu City Lone District Rep. Junard “Ahong” Chan welcomed the project, noting its potential to ease traffic congestion. Furthermore, he emphasized that it would improve transportation efficiency across Mactan Island.
“This development will further boost economic activity, tourism, and investment opportunities in our city,” Chan said. “For this reason, I fully support its implementation.”
The project was presented to the council by Engr. Allan Alfon, president and general manager of the Cebu Cordova Link Expressway, who also serves as a director of LLEX Corp.
Next Steps and Timeline
Following the CDC endorsement, the proposal will now be elevated to the Regional Development Council (RDC) for another round of endorsement. Afterward, it must undergo evaluation and final approval by the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev).
According to Bautista, construction could begin as early as next year—depending largely on the pace of regulatory approvals.
From Joint Venture to Sole Private Developer
It is worth noting that the LLEX project originated from a Joint Venture Agreement between the Lapu-Lapu City Government and LLEX Corp. Initially, the agreement was signed on June 17, 2022, and later amended on June 11, 2025, to reflect updated plans and timelines.
The original agreement was forged during the city’s 61st Charter Day celebration. At that time, then-mayor Junard Chan signed on behalf of the city, while Manuel Gonzales represented the private consortium. Back then, LLEX Corp. consisted of Premium Megastructures Inc., MTD Philippines, and Ulticon Builders Inc.
However, in June 2025, Metro Pacific Tollways Corp.—through its subsidiary MPT VizMin—acquired full ownership of LLEX Corp. As a result, it is now the sole private developer of the elevated expressway.
Construction and Completion Targets
Based on the current timetable, construction is expected to commence within the year. Moreover, project completion is targeted between 2027 and 2028.
