DOTr scraps new Skyway toll scheme

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) yesterday ordered the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) to stop the implementation of the Skyway’s modified toll collection system after it caused monstrous traffic jams along the expressway on Saturday.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade directed the TRB to revert to the old “pay as you enter” scheme.

Tugade said the collection system would not be implemented until it can be executed smoothly.

He said the public must be properly informed before any new scheme is implemented.

“These changes have to be communicated well to the public. We cannot afford confusion on the road because that will result in traffic congestion,“ Tugade said.

“In governance, public convenience always comes first. It’s always public good over regulation … travel should be faster; that’s why it’s called ‘express.’ Additional toll plazas should make travel faster and not the other way around,” he added.

On Saturday, operator Skyway O&M Corp. (SOMCO), implemented the modified toll collection system with the opening of the runway toll plaza along the northbound section of Skyway.

The scheme caused heavy traffic and sparked public outrage, prompting the Skyway management to suspend the policy on Tuesday night.

In a statement, SOMCO pointed out that “full implementation (of the new collection system) should not affect the motorists.”

It said only Class 2 vehicles such as buses and delivery vans are required to use the runway toll plaza for cash payments.

The Skyway operator believes that the scheme will benefit motorists as it even explores better ways to implement the new collection system.

Muntinlupa Rep. Ruffy Biazon said he was affected by the horrible traffic along the expressway on Saturday.  – With Louella Desiderio