The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has given NLEX Corporation the green light to implement new toll rates across its expressway network. The adjustment, set to take effect on January 20, 2026, marks the second and final phase of a periodic rate increase originally scheduled for 2023.
Details of the New Toll Rate Structure
Under the approved adjustment, tolls will rise by ₱6 for the open system and by ₱0.26 per kilometer for the closed system. The open system covers the stretch from Metro Manila—specifically Navotas, Valenzuela, and Caloocan—to Marilao in Bulacan. The closed system encompasses the segment from Bocaue, Bulacan, to Sta. Ines in Mabalacat City, Pampanga, including the Subic-Tipo area.
The new fee matrix breaks down the impact by vehicle class:
- Class 1 (regular cars, SUVs): Additional ₱6 in the open system.
- Class 2 (buses, small trucks): Additional ₱12 in the open system.
- Class 3 (large trucks): Additional ₱16 in the open system.
For motorists traveling the entire length from Metro Manila to Mabalacat City, the total increase will be more significant. They will pay an extra ₱24 for Class 1, ₱60 for Class 2, and ₱72 for Class 3 vehicles.
Rationale and Mitigating Measures
NLEX Corporation stated that the adjustment followed the prescribed regulatory process and underwent a thorough review by the TRB. The company emphasized that periodic toll adjustments are essential to maintain safe, efficient, and quality expressway services and to ensure the long-term viability of its privately funded infrastructure.
To cushion the impact on the public and help control food prices, the tollway firm will continue the government's toll rebate program for agricultural haulers. Vehicles transporting agricultural products and duly accredited by the Department of Agriculture will remain eligible for this support.
Recent and Upcoming Infrastructure Projects
NLEX highlighted that the toll revenue supports ongoing and completed improvements. From 2022 to 2025, the company executed several major projects to enhance safety and mobility:
- Completion of the SFEX Capacity Expansion and the Candaba 3rd Viaduct.
- Road raising in the San Simon area.
- Expansion of the Meycauayan Northbound Exit and construction of the new F. Raymundo Northbound Exit.
- Upgrades to roadway lighting, furniture, bridges, and overpasses.
System and equipment upgrades at toll plazas have also been finished to improve the motorist experience. Looking ahead, the first two-kilometer section of the NLEX-C5 Northlink from the NLEX Mindanao toll plaza to Quirino Highway in Novaliches is slated for completion within the year. This new section aims to alleviate the daily traffic gridlock currently plaguing commuters on congested parts of Mindanao Avenue.
The company assures the public that the toll increase is a necessary step to fund these critical infrastructure developments and ensure the expressway network's future reliability.
