The initiative aligns with government directives to enhance traffic efficiency and reduce congestion at expressway entry points.
Ramon Ang, chair and CEO of SMC, confirmed the installation of 522 ALPR cameras across toll plazas and gantries in its 220-kilometer expressway network, which includes major tollways such as the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Skyway System, and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).
The ALPR system complements the Autosweep RFID toll collection system, ensuring faster throughput and improved accuracy.
“All our toll plazas are equipped with ALPR cameras that support RFID antennas,” he said. “AI and automation enable the cameras to cross-match vehicle data with RFID tags, ensuring correct toll charges.”
He emphasized that ALPR cameras will also be integrated into the designs of future expressway projects.
The ALPR cameras, while serving as a backup to the RFID system, aim to enhance operational efficiency by reading vehicle information in advance and sending data to servers for AI cross-verification. This system reduces the need for vehicles to stop at toll booths, addressing long-standing traffic concerns raised by local government units.
In line with these upgrades, San Miguel has been testing “barriers up” toll operations along SLEX and sections of the Skyway System since last year. Ang noted that these trials have alleviated congestion, particularly on roads leading to and from expressways.
“Our expressways are part of the country’s broader road network. Congestion on toll roads impacts public roads and vice versa. That’s why collaboration with local governments and stakeholders is crucial,” Ang said.
Local solutions
San Miguel also credited its Filipino software engineers and developers for the success of the Autosweep system enhancements, which reflect global best practices in IT solutions.
Ang expressed gratitude to the Toll Regulatory Board and the Department of Transportation for their support in creating policies to advance efficient expressway travel. He reaffirmed San Miguel’s commitment to continuous investment in infrastructure to sustain economic growth.
Through SMC Infrastructure, the company operates and maintains a range of tollways, including the NAIA Expressway, STAR Tollway, and TPLEX, connecting key regions across the Philippines.
