MANILA, Philippines — Motorists can travel toll-free on expressways during the holiday season, though the exemption will apply only during designated hours and days.
The San Miguel Corporation (SMC), which largely operates tollways, waived the toll fees for the following schedules:
- December 24, 10 p.m. to December 25, 6 a.m.
- December 31, 10 p.m. to January 1, 2025 at 6 a.m.
The following SMC expressways will implement the temporary toll-free rule:
- Skyway System
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport Expressway (NAIAX)
- South Luzon Expressway (SLEX)
- Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR) Tollway
- Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX)
In a statement, SMC said on Friday, December 20, that it seeks to “continue its annual tradition” of waiving toll fees during the holidays “to make travel smoother for motorists.”
To ensure road safety, SMC chairman Ramon Ang said patrollers and security personnel have been stationed in high-risk areas since 12 p.m. on Friday.
Traffic monitoring centers will operate 24/7, and roadworks will be suspended until January 3, 2025. Ang also confirmed that tow trucks and emergency vehicles will be on standby for any incidents.
“We appeal to our motorists for patience as we anticipate heavy traffic around Metro Manila, which may affect their travel plans or scheduled flights. We advise them to plan their trips ahead and allot more time for travel, to make sure they arrive at their destinations on time,” SMC said.
As travel on expressways requires an autosweep RFID, the company reminded the public to ensure it has enough load.
The following hotlines can be contacted for emergencies:
- Skyway System and NAIAx (02-53188655 or 0917-5398-762);
- SLEX (049-5087539 or 0917-6877-539);
- STAR Tollway (043-7567870 or 0917-5117827);
- TPLEX (0917-8880715)