Bawas-Gastos Alert: Toll Discounts Hit NLEX, SLEX, STAR Starting March 23
Public utility vehicles, buses, and freight operators are getting a little breathing room starting March 23 after the Department of Transportation announced temporary toll discounts on NLEX, SLEX, and STAR. The move comes as fuel prices stay under pressure because of the conflict in the Middle East.
According to the report, the discount will run for two months and may still be extended depending on the government’s review. Hindi siya instant na bawas sa toll booth mismo in cash terms for everyone, though, because the system will work through rebates that will be credited weekly.
The DOTr said only qualified vehicles can avail of the program. That means operators need to have RFID, must be registered with the LTFRB, and need to hold a valid certificate of franchise before they can benefit from the discounted rates.
Different vehicle classes will get different levels of savings, from jeepneys and modernized jeepneys to bigger public transport units and trucks. Officials said the goal is to soften the blow of rising operating costs for essential transport sectors that move both commuters and cargo every day.
Transportation Secretary Banoy Lopez also thanked tollway operators and private sector leaders who agreed to the temporary arrangement. For drivers and operators dealing with fuel pain, maliit man or malaki, any cut in road costs could help stabilize fares and daily operations in the coming weeks.
Source: Rappler — https://www.rappler.com/business/nlex-slex-star-toll-discount-march-2026/
