SCTEX toll hike final tranche to take effect on Sept. 9

Motorists using the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) should brace for higher toll rates next week as the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has authorized the implementation of the third and final tranche of toll rate adjustments, originally due in 2021 and 2023, for the toll road.

In a statement, NLEX Corp., the operator of SCTEX, said the toll rate hike will begin on September 9, 2025.

The toll operator said motorists will pay an additional P0.64 per kilometer for Class 1 vehicles, P1.29 per kilometer for Class 2, and P1.93 per kilometer for Class 3.

“The additional rates, which followed strict compliance with regulatory procedures and thorough review, are part of the approved 2020/2022 petition for periodic adjustments for SCTEX due in 2021 and 2023,” NLEX Corp. said.

“The TRB, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and NLEX Corp. agreed to implement the adjustments in three tranches over three years to lessen the impact on motorists,” it added.

In particular, once the adjustment is implemented, motorists with Class 1 vehicles or cars/SUVs traveling from Mabalacat City (Mabiga Interchange) to Tarlac will pay an additional P25. 

Those using Class 2 vehicles such as buses and small commercial trucks on the same route will pay an additional P51.

Meanwhile, Class 3 vehicles or large trucks/trailers will incur an additional charge of P75. 

Moreover, motorists traveling between Mabalacat City (Mabiga Interchange) and Tipo, Hermosa, Bataan (near Subic Freeport) will be charged an additional P40, P80, and P121 for Class 1, 2, and 3 vehicles, respectively.

Those traveling the entire SCTEX stretch from Tipo to Tarlac will pay an additional P66 for Class 1, P131 for Class 2, and P197 for Class 3 vehicles.

“Over the past years, various infrastructure and enhancement projects have been implemented along SCTEX to further improve motorists’ safety and convenience while using the expressway. Among the major accomplishments is the completion of the New Clark City Interchange, which now serves as an alternate route for motorists traveling to Capas, Bamban, and New Clark City,” NLEX Corp. said.

“The RFID and toll systems also underwent significant upgrades, including the conversion to Neology antennas and stickers. These new sensors offer better readability rates, thereby enhancing motorists’ travel experience. Additional CCTV cameras and speed monitoring systems were installed across the expressway network to improve traffic law enforcement and strengthen road safety,” the toll road company said. —KG, GMA Integrated News