CAVITEX toll hikes Tuesday; PUVs, agri-trucks get relief

Motorists plying through the Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX) will feel it in their wallets: tolls are set to rise starting this Tuesday. 

The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) approved petitions filed by CAVITEX Infrastructure Corp. (CIC) and the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) in 2020 and 2023, respectively, to increase tolls to fund ongoing maintenance and safety improvements along the expressway.

“We appreciate the government’s affirmation to honor its contractual obligations with the Private Investors and Toll Operators,” CAVITEX management said over the weekend. 

Under the new rates, the CAVITEX R1 portion from Seaside to Zapote will increase for Class 1 vehicles from P35 to P39, Class 2 from P70 to P78, and Class 3 from P104 to P117. 

The R1 Extension Segment 4 from Zapote to Kawit will see a phased increase to moderate the impact: Class 1 will go from P73 to P88, Class 2 from P146 to P176, and Class 3 from P219 to P264. 

The CAVITEX C5 Link Segment 2 at the Sucat Interchange will also be adjusted to P38 for Class 1, P76 for Class 2, and P114 for Class 3.

“While the rate adjustments are necessary to ensure continued maintenance, safety, and improvement of the expressway, we also recognize the need to support sectors most affected by rising transport costs,” the management said.

Old rates for public transpo

To help ease the impact, CAVITEX will allow registered public utility vehicles (PUVs) and agricultural trucks to continue paying the old toll rates for 90 days. Transport groups not yet enrolled may call 1-35000 or email customercare@mptc.com to learn how to join.

“The toll reprieve initiative seeks to strike a fair balance between infrastructure sustainability and public welfare,” the management added. 

According to CIC and PRA, several key upgrades were completed before the toll hike was approved. Replacement of expansion joints at the Parañaque Segment Bridges and Imus Viaduct is expected to enhance ride comfort and structural reliability. 

The expressway’s RFID systems have also been upgraded, while new Automatic License Plate Recognition technology has been installed to speed up toll transactions. Pavement rehabilitation continues along critical sections of the Kawit and Parañaque segments.