MODERN commuting in the south rarely depends on a single road. Instead, motorists travel across an interconnected system of public highways, privately developed roads and toll expressways that together keep the region moving.
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The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced Monday that provincial buses will receive free toll passage along major Luzon expressways, alongside increased fuel discounts and waived terminal fees for public transport operators.
Under the relief program, provincial buses traveling through the North Luzon Expressway, Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway will save up to P2,334 for a one-way trip or P4,674 for a round trip per vehicle unit.
Buses operating along the South Luzon Expressway will save P511 per unit for trips between Magallanes, Makati and Calamba, Laguna, amounting to P1,022 for a round trip.
In addition to expressway toll relief, the government is expanding transport sector subsidies. Starting Saturday, 15 August, the fuel discount for traditional jeepneys and UV Express vehicles will increase from P10 to P12 per liter.
Beginning Sunday, 16 August, monthly membership fees across 86 SM transport terminals nationwide will be waived for public transport operators and drivers, the agency said.
Monthly terminal fees currently range from P500 for tricycle drivers and P1,200 for taxis, up to P1,500 for jeepneys, P2,000 for Asian Utility Vehicles and up to P6,000 for bus units.
