Additional design changes and intermittent work stoppages have further pushed back the timeline. While the initial section from Caloocan to España has opened, the remaining stretch from España to Sta. Mesa—which connects directly to the Skyway Stage 3—remains incomplete. MAP emphasized that finishing the project would ease traffic along key Metro Manila thoroughfares, including España Boulevard, Quezon Avenue, Lacson Avenue, Magsaysay Boulevard, and Quirino Avenue. The project is being developed by Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) through its subsidiary NLEX Corp. Panlilio, who currently serves as MAP president, also holds senior executive roles within the Metro Pacific Group, including positions in PLDT, Meralco, and Smart Communications.