NLEX Corporation has intensified its road safety advocacy with the launch of its ‘I Care for Strays’ program at Barangay Patubig, Marilao in Bulacan. As part of the company’s Mission Road Safety campaign, this initiative aims to prevent and manage stray animal incidents along the expressway and local roads.
In collaboration with the Provincial Government of Bulacan, the Municipality of Marilao, the Bulacan Provincial Veterinary Office, the Marilao Municipal Veterinary Office, and the Estrella Animal Welfare Advocates, an orientation was conducted for pet owners from Marilao and neighboring municipalities. The orientation covered animal welfare laws, responsible pet ownership, and stray animal population control. Over 300 cats and dogs received free spay and neuter services, deworming, and anti-rabies vaccinations.
“I Care for Strays is our way of promoting and protecting animal welfare while ensuring the safety of our motorists and community members. By addressing and preventing incidents involving stray animals on expressways and local roads, we aim to safeguard everyone’s safety,” said Donna F. Marcelo, Vice President for Communication and Stakeholder Management Division at NLEX Corporation.
Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando praised the initiative, saying, “Your concern for the safety and welfare of our animals is a crucial step towards safer and better-maintained roads in Bulacan.”
Marilao Mayor Henry Lutao also expressed his support for the program, stating, “We commend NLEX’s dedication to educating and assisting the residents of its host communities towards better living. Programs like ‘I Care for Strays’ significantly impact their views on animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.”
Pet owner Maribeth Bondoc shared her gratitude for the project, “Thank you to NLEX for providing free spaying and neutering for our pets. This is a big help, especially since it is challenging to care for animals when they multiply.”
In addition to the ‘I Care for Strays’ program, NLEX Corporation also runs a regular barangay-level information campaign called Kaligtasan Sa Daan (KalSaDa). This program educates residents from NLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX Connector host communities on responsible road usage, road safety tips, and ways to keep their environment safe for both residents and motorists.
NLEX Corporation is a subsidiary of the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), the toll road arm of the Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC).
