Cavitex to raise toll rate on May 22

The increased toll rate approved for the Manila–Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX) R-1 segment will take effect on Sunday, May 22, after it was deferred from May 12 to give Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators more time to register in the toll reprieve program, Cavitex Infrastructure (CIC) and its joint venture partner, Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), announced. The toll operator deferred the rate hike to allow more PUV drivers and operators to avail of toll rebates and continue enjoying the old toll rates of ₱25 for Class 1 and ₱50 for Class 2. All drivers and operators of the 1,420 public utility vehicles that ply through CAVITEX are targeted to be included in the program. The toll reprieve program is system-driven via the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). All PUVs operators and drivers have to do is enroll their account to the program in coordination with their different transport organizations. The program will run for 90 days starting on Day 1, May 22, of the implementation of the new toll rates. The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) thanked CIC and PRA for supporting the mass transport groups. The new rates are inclusive of the 2011 and 2014 periodic toll petitions, and add-on toll petition for enhancement works done in the expressway, which includes bridge lane widening works. Hence, starting May 22, motorists plying the CAVITEX R-1 segment (Cavitex Longos Bacoor to MIA Exit v.v.) will be charged Value Added Tax (VAT)-Inclusive amounts of ₱33.00 for Class 1 vehicles; ₱67.00 for Class 2, and ₱100.00 for Class 3. (Emmie V. Abadilla)