Toll Rebates for PUVs and Cargo Trucks to Start March 23

Toll Rebates for PUVs and Cargo Trucks to Start March 23

MANILA — Public utility vehicles (PUVs) and cargo trucks will begin receiving toll rebates starting March 23 on major expressways as part of the government’s response to rising fuel prices, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced.

In a statement issued Friday, DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the toll relief covers Class 1 PUVs, including traditional and modern jeepneys; Class 2 PUVs, such as buses; and Class 3 freight vehicles engaged in logistics and the transport of essential goods. The program follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to implement measures that would help cushion the impact of higher fuel costs on drivers, commuters, and consumers.

“The toll discounts will be a huge relief for PUV drivers and commuters, as well as consumers, as the toll relief will support the country’s general welfare by stabilizing commuter fares and the cost of goods and commodities,” Lopez said.

The rebates will be credited weekly to qualified vehicles passing through the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), and STAR (Southern Tagalog Arterial Road) Tollway. Other expressways are not included in the program.

According to the DOTr, the rebate scheme will initially run for two months, with the possibility of extension subject to review of its effectiveness.

Lopez expressed gratitude to tollway operators for voluntarily implementing the relief program.

“Nagpapasalamat tayo sa San Miguel Corp. (SMC), kay (chairperson) Mr. Ramon Ang at sa Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC), kay (chairperson) Mr. Manny Pangilinan dahil malaking tulong ito sa ating mga PUV drivers, commuters, pati na rin sa ating mga mamimili at mga negosyante sa kabila ng kinakaharap nating krisis ngayon sa langis,” he said.

With the adjusted toll rates, Class 1 vehicles may save up to PHP18 per end‑to‑end trip, while Class 2 and Class 3 vehicles could save as much as PHP47 and PHP72, respectively.

Earlier this week, President Marcos ordered the suspension of fare hikes for PUVs and the rollout of additional relief measures for the transport sector, including fuel subsidies, toll discounts, and the “Libreng Sakay” program.

The government has also begun distributing a PHP5,000 fuel subsidy to tricycle drivers in Metro Manila, with nationwide distribution for all PUV drivers to continue through the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and the Department of Social Welfare and Development. [PNA]

via The Philippines Herald | Negosentro Media Group