In direct response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to cushion the impact of global fuel price hikes, additional tollway operators are set to implement significant toll discounts for Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) starting March 23, 2026.
The initiative aims to provide immediate financial breathing room for the transport sector as it navigates the economic pressures caused by the ongoing Middle East crisis.
The program now includes several major expressways, ensuring a wider reach for traditional and modern jeepneys, buses, and freight vehicles. The new participating routes are:
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CAVITEX (Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway)
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R1 Expressway Extension
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MCX (Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway)
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SCTEX (Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway – Tipo to Tarlac)
Under the approved discount structure, qualified PUVs can realize substantial savings per trip:
| Vehicle Category | Estimated Savings |
| Class 1 (e.g., Jeepneys, Small Vans) | Up to Php 66 |
| Class 2 (e.g., Buses, Large PUVs) | Up to Php 131 |
| Class 3 (e.g., Large Freight/Trucks) | Up to Php 197 |
The discounts will be implemented via a rebate mechanism, where savings are credited back to the operators’ accounts on a weekly basis.
The program is scheduled for an initial period of two (2) months. However, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has noted that this period may be extended depending on a future review of economic conditions and fuel price stability.
DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez expressed his gratitude to the private toll operators for their cooperation in this social relief effort.
“Nagpapasalamat tayo sa mga toll operators dahil malaking tulong itong mga discount para sa ating mga PUV drivers. Alam natin ‘yung hirap na dinaranas ng mga nasa transport sector araw-araw. Kaya tuloy-tuloy lang tayo sa pagpapatupad ng mga programang direktang makatutulong sa kanila,” Secretary Lopez stated.
By lowering operational costs for drivers and operators, the government aims to prevent a potential spike in commuting costs for the general public, maintaining a balance between transport sustainability and commuter welfare.
