Good news for motorists traveling between Quezon City and Valenzuela City! A new section of the NLEX-C5 Northlink is officially open, providing another route for drivers who regularly deal with heavy traffic along Mindanao Avenue and Quirino Highway.
The newly opened NLEX-C5 Northlink Segment 8.2 Section 1A connects Quirino Highway in Novaliches, Quezon City, to the NLEX Mindanao Toll Plaza in Valenzuela City.
And here’s another reason to check out the new road: motorists can use this two-kilometer section toll-free until December 31, 2026.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inaugurated the expressway section on October 29, 2026, just in time for the Undas travel rush.
Although the new road is only two kilometers long, it is expected to make a considerable difference for motorists traveling between the two cities. According to government estimates, a trip that previously took around 40 to 45 minutes could now take approximately five minutes.
If you’re planning to use the new NLEX-C5 Northlink, here’s everything you need to know about its location, entry and exit points, routes, toll-free period, and connections to other major expressways.
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NLEX-C5 Northlink: Quick Facts
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Official name | NLEX-C5 Northlink Segment 8.2 Section 1A |
| Opening date | October 29, 2026 |
| Length | Approximately 2 kilometers |
| Location | Quezon City and Valenzuela City |
| Route | Quirino Highway to Mindanao Avenue/NLEX Mindanao Toll Plaza |
| Toll fee | Free on the newly opened section |
| Toll-free period | Until December 31, 2026 |
| Operating hours | 24 hours, 7 days a week |
| Estimated travel time | Approximately 5 minutes |
| Previous travel time | Around 40–45 minutes |
| Expected daily traffic | Approximately 11,000 vehicles |
| Expressway operator | NLEX Corporation |
Where Is the New NLEX-C5 Northlink Located?
The newly opened NLEX-C5 Northlink is an elevated expressway section connecting two important roads in northern Metro Manila: Mindanao Avenue and Quirino Highway.
One end connects to the NLEX Mindanao Toll Plaza area in Valenzuela City, while the other reaches Quirino Highway in Barangay Bagbag, Quezon City.
This is particularly useful for motorists coming from Novaliches, Fairview, and nearby communities who need access to NLEX and other connected expressways.
Previously, drivers traveling between these areas often had to navigate busy local roads, intersections, and longer routes to reach the expressway network.
With the opening of Section 1A, motorists have an additional option that allows them to avoid some of these congested surface roads.
The new connection also crosses the Tullahan River, improving access between the two cities.
However, one important thing to understand is that the entire NLEX-C5 Northlink project is not yet open. Only the first two-kilometer section, officially called Section 1A, opened on October 29.
The larger project will eventually extend farther into Quezon City.
NLEX-C5 Northlink Entry and Exit Points
One of the most important things to know before using the new expressway is where you can enter and exit.
For the newly opened Section 1A, the main access points are at Quirino Highway in Quezon City and the Mindanao Avenue/NLEX Mindanao Toll Plaza area in Valenzuela City.
1. Quirino Highway Entry and Exit – Quezon City
Motorists coming from Novaliches can access the new expressway through the Quirino Highway entry ramp in Barangay Bagbag.
This entrance provides a convenient connection for drivers traveling from communities along Quirino Highway and nearby roads.
After entering the expressway, motorists can travel toward Mindanao Avenue and connect to the NLEX network, depending on their destination.
This route is particularly useful for those heading toward Central Luzon or other destinations served by NLEX.
In the opposite direction, motorists coming from NLEX and Mindanao Avenue can use the new section to reach Quirino Highway and continue toward Novaliches.
2. Mindanao Avenue/NLEX Mindanao Toll Plaza – Valenzuela City
The western end of the new expressway connects to the Mindanao Avenue and NLEX Mindanao Toll Plaza area.
This provides access to the existing NLEX road network, including routes connecting to NLEX Harbor Link.
For motorists already traveling on NLEX, the new section provides a route toward Quirino Highway without having to follow the older surface-road connection.
3. Connections to NLEX Mainline and NLEX Connector
Aside from connecting Mindanao Avenue and Quirino Highway, the new section also improves access to other major expressways.
Motorists traveling from the Quezon City side can continue through the connected NLEX network toward destinations in Central Luzon.
Drivers heading toward Manila may also use the NLEX Connector through the appropriate connecting route.
Remember that these are connections through the broader expressway network. The toll-free arrangement for Section 1A does not automatically mean that the entire NLEX or NLEX Connector is free.
How to Use the New NLEX-C5 Northlink
If this is your first time using the road, the route will depend on where you’re coming from.
Here’s a simple guide.
From Novaliches or Quirino Highway to NLEX
- Travel along Quirino Highway toward the new NLEX-C5 Northlink access ramp in Barangay Bagbag.
- Enter the expressway through the designated ramp.
- Follow the signs toward Mindanao Avenue or the NLEX connection.
- Continue toward the NLEX Mindanao Toll Plaza and take the appropriate route for your destination.
This is a useful option for drivers traveling from Novaliches toward Bulacan, Pampanga, and other areas accessible through NLEX.
From NLEX to Quirino Highway or Novaliches
- While traveling on NLEX, follow the appropriate signs toward the Harbor Link Interchange.
- Head east toward Mindanao Avenue.
- Keep left as directed to enter NLEX-C5 Northlink Segment 8.2 Section 1A.
- Continue along the newly opened section toward Quirino Highway.
- Exit at the Quirino Highway end and continue toward your destination in Novaliches or other areas of Quezon City.
Motorists should pay attention to overhead signs, lane markings, and traffic advisories, especially while getting familiar with the new road layout.
From Quirino Highway to Manila via NLEX Connector
Motorists traveling from Quirino Highway toward Manila can use the new Northlink section to access the connected NLEX road system.
From there, follow the designated interchange and directional signs toward the NLEX Connector.
The NLEX Connector provides another expressway option for reaching Manila, including areas near the University Belt.
This may be helpful for those who want to avoid some of the congestion along EDSA and other major roads, although actual travel times will still depend on traffic conditions and the final destination.
Is NLEX-C5 Northlink Toll-Free?
Yes. The newly opened NLEX-C5 Northlink Segment 8.2 Section 1A is toll-free until December 31, 2026.
The announcement was made by President Marcos during the road’s inauguration on October 29.
This means motorists can use the new two-kilometer section without paying a toll specifically for that section during the announced period.
When Will the Toll-Free Period End?
The announced toll-free period runs through December 31, 2026.
However, motorists should distinguish between using the new section and traveling on other toll expressways.
For example, if your journey continues along existing tolled portions of NLEX, SCTEX, or NLEX Connector, the applicable toll charges for those roads may still apply.
The free passage announcement covers the newly opened Northlink section, not the entire expressway network.
How Much Will the Toll Be Starting in 2027?
As of November 1, 2026, an official toll-rate schedule for Section 1A following the toll-free period has not been confirmed in the sources reviewed for this guide.
Motorists should monitor announcements from NLEX Corporation and the Toll Regulatory Board regarding approved rates and the start of actual toll collection.
If you’re planning a trip after December 31, check the latest official advisory before traveling.
How Much Travel Time Can Motorists Save?
One of the biggest advantages of the new NLEX-C5 Northlink is its potential to shorten travel time between Mindanao Avenue and Quirino Highway.
According to government estimates, the journey could be reduced from approximately 40–45 minutes to around five minutes.
That’s a significant improvement, especially for people who regularly travel between Novaliches and Valenzuela City.
Of course, the five-minute figure is an estimate for the newly connected route, not a guarantee of your total travel time.
Traffic at the entry and exit points, road conditions, and congestion on connecting roads can still affect how long your journey takes.
Nevertheless, providing motorists with a more direct connection between these areas could help reduce the need to travel through several crowded intersections.
Who Will Benefit From the New Road?
Motorists From Novaliches and Northern Quezon City
Residents traveling from Novaliches and nearby communities now have another way to reach the NLEX network.
Instead of relying entirely on existing local routes, drivers can use Quirino Highway to access the new expressway connection.
Travelers Heading to Bulacan and Central Luzon
For motorists heading north, the new route provides better access to the NLEX mainline.
This can be useful for trips toward Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, and other destinations in Central Luzon.
Travelers continuing to Northern Luzon can also use the connecting SCTEX network where appropriate.
Motorists Going to Manila
The new connection can also benefit drivers traveling toward Manila through NLEX Connector.
Instead of relying solely on traditional Metro Manila roads, motorists have another option for reaching the expressway network.
Delivery Trucks and Logistics Operators
Better road connections can also benefit companies transporting goods between Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
The new section is expected to accommodate around 11,000 vehicles daily, helping improve traffic flow and the movement of people and goods.
Is the NLEX-C5 Northlink Open 24 Hours?
Yes. The newly opened section operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The government has also announced that it accommodates all expressway vehicle classes, subject to the applicable vehicle eligibility and road safety regulations.
Motorists should follow the posted speed limits, traffic signs, and any special restrictions announced by the operator.
If you’re using a motorcycle, remember that Philippine expressway access rules apply. Only motorcycles with an engine displacement of at least 400cc are generally permitted on expressways, subject to other applicable requirements.
Why Was the Road Opened Before Undas 2026?
The NLEX-C5 Northlink Segment 8.2 Section 1A was inaugurated on October 29, 2026, just before the annual Undas holiday.
This was an important consideration because All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day typically bring increased traffic as Filipinos travel to cemeteries, visit relatives, and return to their home provinces.
President Marcos explained that the section was opened ahead of its anticipated schedule to help ease congestion during this busy travel period.
Among the areas expected to benefit are roads serving cemeteries and memorial parks near the new connection, including Holy Cross Memorial Park.
Although Undas was a major reason for its early opening, the road is intended to provide long-term benefits for motorists traveling between Quezon City, Valenzuela, and nearby destinations.
NLEX-C5 Northlink: What’s Next?
The newly opened two-kilometer section is only the beginning of the larger NLEX-C5 Northlink development.
Section 1A forms part of the proposed 11.3-kilometer Segment 8.2 project, which is intended to connect Mindanao Avenue with C5/C.P. Garcia Avenue near Katipunan Avenue in Quezon City.
When completed, this broader expressway connection is expected to improve travel along the eastern side of Metro Manila.
It could provide a more convenient connection between northern and southern parts of the metropolitan area, while helping reduce reliance on heavily congested routes.
However, there is no need to confuse the future project with the section that is already operational.
For now, motorists can use the Quirino Highway–Mindanao Avenue connection. The remaining portions will require separate announcements before they become available to the public.
The NLEX-C5 Northlink is being developed through a public-private partnership involving the Toll Regulatory Board and NLEX Corporation, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation.
Tips Before Using the New NLEX-C5 Northlink
If you’re planning to try the newly opened road, here are a few things worth remembering:
- Check your route before leaving. Make sure the Quirino Highway or Mindanao Avenue access point is appropriate for your destination.
- Follow the road signs carefully. New ramps and interchanges can be unfamiliar, even to experienced drivers.
- Keep your RFID ready for other tolled roads. Although Section 1A is free until December 31, other sections of the NLEX network may still require payment.
- Observe expressway regulations. Follow the posted speed limits and lane restrictions.
- Monitor official advisories. Traffic arrangements, operating conditions, and toll collection announcements may change.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did NLEX-C5 Northlink open?
The NLEX-C5 Northlink Segment 8.2 Section 1A officially opened on October 29, 2026.
Where is the entrance to NLEX-C5 Northlink?
The newly opened section can be accessed from Quirino Highway in Barangay Bagbag, Quezon City, and from the Mindanao Avenue/NLEX Mindanao Toll Plaza side in Valenzuela City.
Is NLEX-C5 Northlink free?
Yes. The new Section 1A is toll-free until December 31, 2026. Other tolled expressways connected to it may still charge their regular fees.
Can I use NLEX-C5 Northlink to travel to Pampanga?
Yes. You can use the new section to access the connected NLEX network and continue toward Pampanga through the appropriate northbound route.
Can I use the new road to reach Manila?
Yes. Motorists can connect to the NLEX network and use routes leading toward NLEX Connector for trips to Manila.
Is the entire NLEX-C5 Northlink already open?
No. Only Segment 8.2 Section 1A, measuring approximately two kilometers, opened on October 29, 2026. The entire planned project is approximately 11.3 kilometers long.
Does the new expressway connect directly to Katipunan Avenue?
Not yet. The larger project is intended to extend toward C5/C.P. Garcia near Katipunan Avenue, but that connection is not part of the newly opened Section 1A.
Is NLEX-C5 Northlink open to trucks?
The government has announced that the road accommodates all expressway vehicle classes. Trucks must still comply with applicable expressway regulations and any posted operational restrictions.
Final Thoughts
The opening of NLEX-C5 Northlink Section 1A is welcome news for motorists who frequently travel between Novaliches, Quezon City, Valenzuela, and the NLEX network.
It may only be a two-kilometer road, but that short connection could make a noticeable difference, particularly for drivers who regularly experience traffic along Mindanao Avenue and Quirino Highway.
The estimated reduction in travel time from 40–45 minutes to around five minutes is certainly promising. And with the new section remaining toll-free until December 31, 2026, motorists have an opportunity to try the route without an additional toll charge for Section 1A.
As always, check the latest traffic advisories and familiarize yourself with the entry and exit points before using the road.
For now, it’s another much-needed road connection in northern Metro Manila—and hopefully, one that makes everyday travel a little easier for thousands of motorists.
Sources and References
- Presidential Communications Office – NLEX-C5 Northlink Opening
- Philippine News Agency – NLEX-C5 Northlink Inauguration
- Top Gear Philippines – NLEX-C5 Northlink Toll-Free Period and Routes
- GMA News – NLEX-C5 Northlink Toll-Free Until Year-End
Information updated November 1, 2026. Motorists are advised to check official NLEX announcements for any changes to toll fees, access points, and traffic arrangements.
