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Tollway operators have begun waiving fees for trucks transporting agricultural goods for a one-month period starting April 20, a move seen to help reduce food distribution costs.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) said the measure could help ease retail food prices, noting that transport expenses typically add about Php 2 to Php 5 per kilogram to consumer costs.
Based on initial estimates, the agency said the suspension of toll fees could generate more than Php 100 million in savings for cargo operators moving farm products.
The exemption, which took effect on April 20, covered vehicles accredited under the Department of Agriculture’s logistics program.
Agriculture officials said the initiative was coordinated with the Department of Transportation and the Toll Regulatory Board as part of efforts to manage fuel-related cost pressures.
They said the policy was designed to support farmers and stabilize food supply chains by lowering logistics expenses.
The agency also expanded its use of government trucks in key production areas to ensure uninterrupted movement of agricultural goods to markets.
Officials said accredited truck operators could benefit from significant per-trip savings over the duration of the toll exemption period, with higher total gains expected if more vehicles join the program.