FILE: SCTEX-Tarlac Plaza Barrier NB. Photo courtesy of TRB

If you’ve been driving along the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), you may have already noticed some changes to your toll fees. And if you haven’t, here's an important update for you: the second tranche of the toll fee adjustment is about to take effect!

In 2023, the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) gave a green light to new toll rates for SCTEX, following petitions by NLEX Corp. These adjustments, however, aren’t happening all at once. To cushion the impact on motorists and help curb inflation, the TRB decided to implement these new toll fees in three tranches over three years. The first tranche rolled out in October 2023, and now, the second tranche is set to be implemented on November 19, 2024.

What Does This Mean for You?

Well, if you’re a frequent traveler on SCTEX, expect the toll fees to go up again – but don’t panic. The increase is gradual and is part of the agreed-upon schedule. Here's a quick look at the new rates, excluding VAT (Value Added Tax):

1st Tranche Rates (Implemented October 2023)
- Class 1: ₱4.62/km
- Class 2: ₱9.23/km
- Class 3: ₱13.85/km

2nd Tranche Rates (Starting November 19, 2024)
- Class 1: ₱5.26/km
- Class 2: ₱10.52/km
- Class 3: ₱15.78/km

How Much Will You Pay More?

For those traveling between popular SCTEX routes, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay with the new toll fees:

- Tipo to Mabalacat (1st Tranche)
- Class 1: ₱289
- Class 2: ₱579
- Class 3: ₱868

Tipo to Mabalacat (2nd Tranche)
- Class 1: ₱330 (+₱41)
- Class 2: ₱660 (+₱81)
- Class 3: ₱989 (+₱121)

Tipo to Tarlac (1st Tranche)
- Class 1: ₱469
- Class 2: ₱938
- Class 3: ₱1,407

Tipo to Tarlac (2nd Tranche)
- Class 1: ₱534 (+₱65)
- Class 2: ₱1,063 (+₱131)
- Class 3: ₱1,603 (+₱196)

So, depending on your vehicle class, your toll fare could increase by as much as ₱196 if you’re traveling the full length from Tipo (Hermosa, Bataan) to Tarlac City. It’s not a huge jump, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind for your budget.

Why the Hike?

The toll rate adjustments are part of NLEX Corp.'s petitions from 2020 and 2022, aimed at covering maintenance costs and infrastructure improvements. However, the TRB has been mindful of the impact on drivers, spreading out the increases over a period of three years.

So, while the price bump may not be the most exciting news, it’s good to know that the TRB is working to protect public welfare and prevent a sudden shock to the motoring public.

If you’re planning a trip on SCTEX after November 19, make sure to bring a little extra cash or load up your RFID account to cover the new toll fees. Safe travels!