The Department of Agriculture has secured a temporary toll fee exemption for trucks transporting farm goods, aiming to lower food prices while protecting farmers from rising fuel costs.

The one-month measure, which takes effect on April 20, covers vehicles accredited under the agency’s food lane program. It was coordinated with the Department of Transportation and the Toll Regulatory Board, and may be extended depending on its impact.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the move is intended to ease pressure across the supply chain, where transport costs have surged alongside fuel prices.

“We thank our tollway concessionaires for embodying the bayanihan spirit. This will help cushion the impact of higher fuel prices on food supply and affordability, and help protect farmers’ incomes during these challenging times,” Tiu Laurel said.

Transport expenses currently add about P2 to P5 per kilo to retail food prices, according to the DA, highlighting how logistics costs quickly translate into higher prices for consumers.

The policy follows directives from Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to shield the agriculture sector from global cost pressures, including those linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Initial estimates show the waiver could save between P1,500 and P3,000 per trip for over 1,100 accredited trucks. These savings could reach as much as P105 million within a month, with further gains possible if more transport operators join the program.

The accredited fleet is capable of delivering up to 7 million kilos of food daily, supporting thousands of farmers and ensuring a steady supply to major markets.

To further stabilize distribution, the DA has also deployed its own trucks in key farming areas such as Benguet, helping prevent delivery delays, spoilage, and supply shortages.

While the toll relief offers short-term support, officials noted that broader reforms in logistics will be needed to reduce the sector’s vulnerability to future fuel price spikes.