Philippines rolls out toll rebates for PUVs and cargo trucks on key expressways
Public utility vehicles (PUVs) and cargo trucks will soon benefit from toll rebates on three major expressways. The move comes as part of broader relief measures to offset rising fuel costs. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered the suspension of fare increases and introduced support programs, including fuel subsidies and toll discounts.
Starting March 23, qualified vehicles passing through NLEX, SLEX, and STAR expressways will receive weekly rebates. The discounts vary by vehicle class: Class 1 can save up to ₱18 per trip, Class 2 up to ₱47, and Class 3 up to ₱72. The program will run for two months initially, with a possible extension depending on further assessments.
The government has already distributed ₱5,000 fuel subsidies to tricycle drivers in the National Capital Region. Plans are underway to expand this support to all PUVs nationwide. However, the rebate program excludes most expressways, though officials have not specified how many or why. President Marcos Jr. directed the measures to ease financial strain on drivers, commuters, and consumers. Alongside toll rebates, the suspension of fare hikes aims to stabilise transport costs amid ongoing fuel price increases.
The toll rebate program targets immediate relief for PUV operators and cargo truckers using NLEX, SLEX, and STAR. With fuel subsidies already reaching some drivers, further rollouts are expected across the country. Officials will monitor the program's impact before deciding on any extensions.
