Tugade: Scrap new Skyway toll scheme

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade. INQUIRER file photo

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade on Wednesday ordered the scrapping of Skyway’s new toll collection scheme, citing complaints that it only inconvenienced the public.

Tugade’s order, which was coursed through the Toll Regulatory Board, came a day after toll operator Skyway O&M Corp. (Somco) apologized and said it would “temporarily revert” to its “pay as you enter” scheme for private vehicles coming from Alabang, Sucat and Bicutan.

The new system, which Somco launched Jan. 27 to facilitate faster collection, drew the ire of northbound motorists forced to endure longer queues at the toll plaza of Ninoy Aquino International Expressway onramp.

“We cannot afford confusion on the road because that will surely result in congestion. Travel must be faster along the expressways, that’s why it’s called ‘express.’ The additional toll plazas should speed up travel and not the other way around,” Tugade said in a statement. —Jovic Yee