cover photo from: tl.wikipedia.org
Alabang-Zapote Road is an important thoroughfare in the southern part of Metro Manila, Philippines. This vital road connects the cities of Muntinlupa, Las Piñas, and Bacoor, as well as various residential areas, commercial centers, and industrial zones along its stretch, serving as a lifeline for thousands of commuters and travelers daily, especially when you are residing in a condo in Las Piñas.
Brief Historical Background
Alabang Zapote Road has a rich history that dates to the Spanish colonial era when it was an old coastal trail connecting the Province of Manila to La Laguna and other southern provinces. Back then, it was called Calle Real (Royal Street) or Camino Real (Royal Way), which spanned from Ermita in Manila to Muntinlupa. During the American colonial period, it was designated as part of Highway 1 and later became part of Manila South Road, which connected Manila to the Bicol Region. Today, the road’s sections in Las Piñas and Muntinlupa are still referred to as Calle Real or Real Street, while other parts have been renamed to Del Pilar Street in Manila, Harrison Avenue in Pasay, Quirino Avenue in Parañaque, and Diego Cera Avenue in Las Piñas.
Major Road Networks
Alabang Zapote Road plays a vital role in connecting the southern part of Metro Manila to other cities and provinces in the region. Its strategic location and accessibility to major road networks make it an essential route for commuters and motorists alike. These road networks include:
South Luzon Expressway (SLEX)
A major expressway connecting Metro Manila to the CALABARZON region. Alabang Zapote Road intersects with SLEX at its eastern end, near the Alabang Exit.
Daang Hari Road
A major road in Cavite that connects Alabang Zapote Road to various cities in the province, such as Bacoor, General Trias, Imus, and Dasmarinas.
East Service Road
Running parallel to SLEX, East Service Road provides access to various residential and commercial establishments along Alabang Zapote Road and nearby areas.
Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway (MCX)
A short expressway connecting Cavite to Muntinlupa, MCX intersects with Alabang Zapote Road near the SLEX interchange, providing a faster route to Vista Alabang and other nearby areas.
Traffic Situation and Management
Alabang Zapote Road has become notorious for its traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours. As of July 2016, the Las Piñas Traffic Management Office reported more than 70,000 vehicles traversing the road daily, exceeding its allowable capacity. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has listed Alabang Zapote Road as a major traffic bottleneck point, prompting the implementation of various traffic management schemes.
Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP) / Number Coding Scheme
The Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), also known as the number coding scheme, was introduced to help alleviate traffic congestion along Alabang Zapote Road and other major thoroughfares in Metro Manila. Under this scheme, vehicles with certain plate number endings are prohibited from traveling on specific days of the week.
The number coding scheme schedule is as follows:
- Monday: Plates ending in 1 and 2
- Tuesday: Plates ending in 3 and 4
- Wednesday: Plates ending in 5 and 6
- Thursday: Plates ending in 7 and 8
- Friday: Plates ending in 9 and 0
The UVVRP is not enforced during holidays and weekends. On Alabang Zapote Road, the number coding scheme is implemented from 7 am to 10 am and 5 pm to 8 pm, with no window hours.
Establishments Along Alabang Zapote Road
Alabang Zapote Road is home to numerous commercial establishments, including shopping malls and restaurants, car dealerships, and well-known hospitals. In modern times, its strategic location and accessibility make it an ideal place for business and leisure activities.
Shopping Malls
Several major shopping malls are located along Alabang Zapote Road, offering a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options for visitors and residents alike. Some of the most popular malls in the area include:
Festival Mall
A large shopping complex located in Filinvest City. Festival Mall features a diverse array of retail outlets, restaurants, cinemas, and recreational facilities, making it a popular destination for families and friends looking to spend quality time together.
Alabang Town Center
Also known as “Town” by its regulars. Alabang Town Center is situated near various residential communities and commercial buildings, making it a convenient and accessible hub for shopping, dining, and relaxation.
Starmall Alabang
A contemporary lifestyle mall offering a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. Starmall Alabang is an ideal destination for those looking for a one-stop shopping experience.
Car Dealerships
Alabang Zapote Road is also known for its numerous car dealerships, earning it the nickname “Detroit of the Philippines.” Some of the major car brands with dealerships along the road include Ford Motors, Nissan, Suzuki, Audi, Chevrolet, Mitsubishi, Hyundai, Chrysler, Honda, Isuzu, and Volkswagen.
Reputable Hospitals
Several well-known hospitals are located along Alabang Zapote Road, providing quality healthcare services to residents and visitors. Some of the most reputable hospitals in the area include Asian Hospital and Medical Center, Alabang Medical Center, and Medical Center Muntinlupa. These hospitals offer a wide range of medical services, from general surgery and internal medicine to specialized treatments in cardiology, neurology, and oncology.
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Residential Communities
Additionally, Alabang Zapote Road is surrounded by various residential communities, including exclusive subdivisions and condominium developments. These residential areas provide a comfortable and convenient living environment for families and individuals, with easy access to shopping malls, restaurants, schools, hospitals, and other essential establishments.
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The Hermosa
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