THE North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Corporation continues to strengthen its engagement with communities covered by the NLEX- Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) network through the recently concluded “Puno ng Pag-asa” recycled Christmas tree-making contest.

The contest, which was participated by 38 barangays from Quezon City, Caloocan City, Valenzuela City, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Bataan, aimed to raise environmental awareness by using recycled materials. It intended to deepen community involvement and enabled them to feel the Christmas spirit amid the pandemic.

With the global health crisis taking a toll on everyone’s lives, the program hoped to encourage communities to protect the environment and adapt to the “new normal.”

Emerging as the grand winner is Barangay Poblacion, Mabalacat City, Pampanga followed by Barangay Suclaban in Mexico, Pampanga. Barangay Pio, Porac, Pampanga placed third and finalist Barangay Unang Sigaw, Quezon City was awarded the Most-Liked Photo in the Facebook Group Page of NLEX-SCTEX Communities.

Other finalists include Barangay 164, Caloocan City; Barangay Talipapa, Quezon City; Barangay Langka, Meycauayan City, Bulacan; Barangay Lalangan, Plaridel, Bulacan; Barangays Malis and Tuktukan in Guiguinto, Bulacan; Barangay Burol 1st, Balagtas, Bulacan; and Barangays Sto. Nino and New San Jose in Dinalupihan, Bataan.

Cash prizes were given to the winners, while all participating barangays received sacks of rice.

Since 2005, NLEX has been implementing sustainable programs for the environment that help make a difference in the lives of the people in its host communities.