Skyway Stage 3 exclusive for Class 1 vehicles with Autosweep RFIDs

Just like the Marvel Comics villain Thanos, the inevitable has happened. Skyway Stage 3 will finally impose toll fees starting July 12, now that it has a Toll Operating Permit and Notice to Start Collecting Toll from the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB). 

Motorists now have to factor in Skyway Stage 3 toll fees as part of their daily budget

It’s been six months since the elevated tollway has been fully opened to the public, and many motorists have had their fill of free passage by now. While the impending charges might be the last thing everyone needs in these times (reduced rates notwithstanding), there is some good news. 

First, since Skyway Stage 3 is owned and operated by San Miguel Corporation (SMC), it will accept Autosweep RFIDs for toll collection. This should serve as an incentive for those still holding out on having a sticker installed on their cars. There will be no designated cash lanes along the thoroughfare, so there’s no other way to pay the toll fees.

This is the best time to get an Autosweep RFID sticker

Secondly, there will be no trucks allowed, with SMC announcing that Skyway Stage 3 will be exclusive to Class 1 vehicles. The TRB defines these as vehicles having two axles and with a maximum overall height of 7.5 feet. These include cars, jeepneys, vans, pickups, and motorcycles with a minimum engine displacement of 400cc. If you’re driving a private vehicle that’s towing a trailer, you won’t be allowed on the tollway. 

According to SMC boss Ramon Ang, the move serves two purposes: to address safety concerns on the tollway, and to further curb the spread of COVID-19. “We continue to look for ways to improve safety and user experience on our expressways, especially the new Skyway 3. We have implemented a number of measures to ensure safety, prevent overspeeding, and facilitate the more efficient flow of vehicles while still providing motorists significantly reduced travel times.”

Unlike on SMC's other expressways, there will be no cash lanes on the Skyway Stage 3   

He adds that with more private vehicles diverted to Skyway Stage 3, public transport and deliveries of goods can benefit from the decongested at-grade sections of the expressway where rates are lower, apart from freeing up toll-free public roads.

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