TRAFFIC on the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) jumped 30.8 percent to almost 5.9 million vehicles in the first eight months of the year, resulting in a 29.6-percent rise in toll revenue to nearly P412.2 million.

According to data from toll road owner and operator Bases Conversion and Development Authority, the number of vehicles that used the SCTex in the same period last year was only around 4.5 million, translating to a total toll revenue of almost P318 million.

Last year, SCTEx traffic surged 209 percent to almost 7.1 million vehicles, from only 2.3 million in 2008.

Toll revenue also skyrocketed to P497.2 million, a 198.4-percent improvement from the P166.6 million posted the year before.

In 2008, however, the toll road only operated for eight months, as it was only opened in April.

BCDA-SCTEx program manager for operational support services Robert Gervacio said there was still room for growth in terms of vehicle number and toll revenue.

The 94-kilometer SCTEx spans the provinces of Pampanga, Bataan, Zambales and Tarlac. It has 11 interchanges, four major bridges, 30 minor bridges, 47 underpasses, 303 drainage structures and toll road facilities and equipment.

BCDA in June awarded to Manila North Tollways Corp. the 25-year contract to lease, manage, operate and maintain the SCTEx.

By Abigail L. Ho
Philippine Daily Inquirer