SCTEX toll rates set for last round of increases this September

Drivers on SCTEX will soon pay a bit more as the TRB implements the last set of scheduled toll increases. The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has given the go signal for the collection of the last set of toll rate adjustments for the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). These adjustments, which were due in 2021 and 2023, will now take effect beginning September 9, 2025.

With the new rates, Class 1 vehicles will add P0.64 per kilometer, Class 2 vehicles will add P1.29, and Class 3 vehicles will add P1.93. These are part of the approved 2020/2022 petition for periodic adjustments. The TRB, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and NLEX Corporation earlier agreed to collect them in three parts to make the changes easier for motorists.

When applied, Class 1 vehicles (cars and SUVs) going from Mabalacat City (Mabiga Interchange) to Tarlac will pay an extra P25. Class 2 vehicles (buses and small trucks) will add P51, while Class 3 vehicles (large trucks and trailers) will add P75. For trips from Mabalacat City (Mabiga Interchange) to Tipo in Hermosa, Bataan, near Subic Freeport, the added toll will be P40 for Class 1, P80 for Class 2, and P121 for Class 3.

Motorists traveling the full SCTEX stretch from Tipo to Tarlac will add P66 for Class 1, P131 for Class 2, and P197 for Class 3. In recent years, SCTEX has seen several improvements. These include the completion of the New Clark City Interchange, giving drivers another way to reach Capas, Bamban, and New Clark City.

The RFID and toll collection system was also upgraded to Neology antennas and stickers, which provide better sensor reading for faster transactions. More CCTV cameras and speed monitoring systems were installed across the road network to support traffic management and safety.

Other works included repairs on the Porac-Gumain Bridge and ongoing reinforcement at the Pasig-Potrero Bridge to ensure safety. Regular maintenance continues, such as pavement repairs, crack sealing, signage replacement, repainting, and fixing guardrails and fences.

For sustainability, rainwater collection systems were set up at the Floridablanca and Dinalupihan rest bays to supply restroom facilities. Plans are also in place to install solar-powered lights combined with wind turbines to help provide brighter and greener lighting along SCTEX.