By Elreene Venice C. Hufana | OCTOBER 2026

Habagat was intense during this year’s rainy season. Even with so much planning and preparation, we received excessive rainfall that our roads became path for the raging water not for the people. The weather was erratic and alarming. This year’s incidents were beyond our expectations and Tulaoc Operation was a testament to what we had to endure and overcome.

For most of us, waking up to heavy rainfall make us anxious about going to work. The gloomy weather makes us think about warmth and safety, sometimes pushing us to desire just staying home. However, not everyone takes the safer path. While we fight to remain safe and dry, there are people who choose to work under the rain and cold. While we avoid getting even slightly wet, there are people who report to work despite being exposed to rain day after day. We fear the illness that the cold may bring, but there are people whose jobs require them to drive through dangerous roads and flooded grounds. They keep going even through extended shifts, restless nights and extreme fatigue.

During the Tulaoc Operation, there were people who, despite knowing to put themselves above all else, chose to embrace a commitment that put others’ safety and convenience above themselves. We honor our lane personnel, patrol crews, traffic management team, emergency response team and our engineering units whose dedication, expertise, and hard work help ensure that the NLEX roadway remains safe and passable for all. These are their stories.

Aldrin Joseph D. Oquendo – Environment, Safety and Health Senior Specialist

Philip T. Dela Cruz – Sector 1 Traffic Supervisor

Marvin R. Camua – Special Operations Traffic Supervisor

Jojie O. Alano – Sector 2 Traffic Supervisor

Alberto S. Serrano Jr – Toll Operations Senior Associate