The Philippine government launched efforts to develop industry and commerce in the countryside and decongest Metro Manila. A few kilometers away from the National Capital Region are two economic zones - Clark and Subic - that are envisioned to be two of the most competitive and attractive hubs in Southeast Asia. But such vision can only be realized through a new and modern expressway that would serve as a gateway to ease up travel and accelerate economic growth in Central and Northern Luzon.

The old north diversion road that led to Central and Northern Luzon may have been wide enough for vehicle volume in the 1970s, but too narrow for 21 st century traffic. It was projected that by the year 2015, as vehicle volume increases, the average speed of travel along the old dilapidated expressway would slow down to 16 kilometers per hour. It definitely needed a major overhaul.

The Philippine government, however, had insufficient resources to finance such a massive development. To complete this ambitious motorway strong backing from the private sector was needed.