The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has authorized the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) to implement toll fee adjustments effective March 2, 2025. The increase includes a flat ₱5.00 hike for motorists using the open system and an additional ₱0.72 per kilometer for those traveling on the closed system.
Background and Rationale for the Increase
The toll adjustments are the result of a thorough regulatory review and are part of a phased implementation of the approved periodic adjustments for 2023, combined with additional tolls for the completion of the ₱7.7 billion Candaba 3rd Viaduct in 2024. The increase originally scheduled for 2023 was deferred and split into two tranches to minimize the financial burden on motorists.
Since its partial opening in August 2024 and full completion in December of the same year, the Candaba 3rd Viaduct has provided a safer and more comfortable journey for motorists without additional toll costs. As a vital connection between Metro Manila, Central Luzon, and Northern Luzon, the new bridge is expected to ease congestion and enhance regional tourism, trade, and commerce.
New Toll Fee Adjustments Breakdown
Under the updated toll matrix, motorists traveling within the open system will see the following increases:
- Class 1 vehicles (regular cars and SUVs): Additional ₱5
- Class 2 vehicles (buses and small trucks): Additional ₱13
- Class 3 vehicles (large trucks and trailers): Additional ₱15
The open system covers areas from Metro Manila (Navotas, Valenzuela, and Caloocan) to Marilao, Bulacan. Meanwhile, for the closed system, which spans from Bocaue, Bulacan to Sta. Ines, Mabalacat City, Pampanga, as well as Subic-Tipo, the additional toll fees are as follows for those traveling the full length of NLEX:
- Class 1 vehicles: Additional ₱57
- Class 2 vehicles: Additional ₱142
- Class 3 vehicles: Additional ₱171
Ongoing and Future NLEX Infrastructure Improvements
Between 2021 and 2024, NLEX has actively undertaken infrastructure projects to improve road safety, mobility, and convenience for motorists. These projects include:
- Road raising in San Simon to address flooding issues
- Expansion of the Meycauayan Northbound Exit and construction of the new F. Raymundo Northbound Exit in Brgy. Pandayan, Meycauayan
- Revitalization of the Balintawak Cloverleaf to ease bottlenecks
- Improvements in roadway lighting, bridge safety, and overpass enhancements
- Upgrades in toll plaza systems to enhance efficiency
Looking ahead, two major projects will commence construction in 2025 to further decongest the NLEX mainline:
- NLEX-C5 Northlink Project – A two-kilometer expressway segment from NLEX Mindanao Toll Plaza to Quirino Highway in Novaliches, aimed at alleviating congestion along Mindanao Avenue.
- NLEX San Fernando to SCTEX Spur Expansion – Increasing the road capacity from two to three lanes in each direction, along with improved roadway lighting and the reconfiguration of Mexico Interchange into a full diamond interchange to accommodate growing traffic volumes.
Impact on Motorists
While the toll adjustment introduces additional costs, the continuous infrastructure improvements promise a more efficient and safer travel experience. The enhancements will not only address congestion but also provide long-term benefits for regional connectivity and economic development.
Motorists are encouraged to plan their trips accordingly and stay updated on further announcements from NLEX and the Toll Regulatory Board.
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