The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has issued provisional approval for the consolidation and adjustment of toll rates for the Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR) Tollway, now officially known as the Apolinario Mabini Highway.
The adjustment comes following a series of petitions for periodic toll rate increases filed by the Star Infrastructure Development Corporation (SIDC) in 2017, 2020, and 2023. This consolidated approval aims to ensure the continued maintenance, safety, and operational efficiency of this vital southern artery.
In an effort to mitigate the immediate financial impact on the motoring public, SIDC has committed to implementing the approved rates in two equal tranches:
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1st Tranche: Effective January 1, 2026
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2nd Tranche: Effective July 2026
The Board has authorized an additional toll rate per kilometer (VAT inclusive) of ₱0.41 for Class 1, ₱0.83 for Class 2, and ₱1.24 for Class 3 vehicles.
Below is a partial illustration of the updated VAT-inclusive rates for the first phase of implementation:
| Route | Class 1 (Cars/SUVs) | Class 2 (Buses/Trucks) | Class 3 (Large Trucks) |
| Sto. Tomas to Lipa (Section 1) | ₱60.00 (+₱5.00) | ₱119.00 (+₱9.00) | ₱179.00 (+₱14.00) |
| Lipa to Batangas City (Section 2) | ₱53.00 (+₱4.00) | ₱106.00 (+₱8.00) | ₱159.00 (+₱12.00) |
| Sto. Tomas to Batangas (End-to-End) | ₱113.00 (+₱9.00) | ₱225.00 (+₱17.00) | ₱337.00 (+₱26.00) |
The Notice of Toll Rate Implementation was officially published in newspapers of general circulation on November 19, November 26, and December 3, 2025, in compliance with regulatory requirements.
SIDC emphasizes that these adjustments are essential for the long-term sustainability of the highway. Motorists can expect the revenue to be reinvested into the facility, resulting in:
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Enhanced Safety: Improved lighting, signage, and pavement maintenance.
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Faster Travel: Optimized toll collection systems and roadside assistance.
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Convenience: A more seamless experience for commuters traveling between Laguna, Batangas, and surrounding provinces.
“The adjustment will redound to the benefit of the expressway users by way of a safer, faster, and more convenient travel experience at the Apolinario Mabini Highway,” the corporation stated.
For more information and the full schedule of the new toll rates, motorists may visit the official SIDC website or follow our social media channels.
