The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has delayed the imposition of penalties on motorists without RFID stickers or with insufficient load at toll gates. Initially set for August 31, the enforcement will now begin on October 1, according to Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista.
Secretary Bautista explained that the extension is intended to give tollway operators more time to inform the public about the new regulations under Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2024-001.
The Secretary hopes that the additional 30 days will provide the public with enough information and time to comply with the requirements.
The memorandum outlines that motorists entering tollways without an RFID will face fines of PHP 1,000 for the first offense, PHP 2,000 for the second offense, and PHP 5,000 for subsequent offenses.
Meanwhile, those with insufficient RFID load will be fined PHP 500 for the first offense, PHP 1,000 for the second, and PHP 2,500 for further violations.
Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) spokesperson Julius Corpuz noted that this initiative is part of the agency’s transition to a fully cashless toll system, which is expected to be implemented by October.
An RFID card is a type of contactless card embedded with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip. This chip contains information that can be wirelessly read by RFID readers installed at toll gates on highways or expressways. Here’s how it works:
Functionality
Contactless Payment: The RFID card allows vehicles to pass through toll gates without stopping for cash payments. When a vehicle with an RFID card approaches a toll gate, the RFID reader detects the card’s signal, deducts the toll fee from the card’s prepaid balance, and opens the barrier to allow the vehicle to pass.
Convenience: The use of RFID cards speeds up the toll payment process, reducing congestion and wait times at toll booths. It also supports a cashless transaction system, which is more efficient and secure.
Forms of RFID for Toll Access
RFID Stickers: Most toll systems in the Philippines use RFID stickers, which are attached to the vehicle’s windshield or headlight. These stickers contain the RFID chip that interacts with the toll gate readers.
RFID Cards: In some systems, especially in other countries, RFID cards might be issued separately from the sticker and can be kept inside the vehicle. The card functions similarly to the sticker but can be manually held up to the reader when passing through a toll gate.
How It’s Used
Reloading: The RFID card or sticker is linked to a prepaid account. Users need to regularly reload the card with funds through various channels like online banking, payment centers, or mobile apps to ensure they have enough balance to cover toll fees.
Interoperability: In the Philippines, two main RFID systems exist (Easytrip and Autosweep). It’s important to use the correct RFID system for the specific expressways you plan to use since they are not fully interoperable.
Benefits
Speed and Efficiency: Speeds up the toll payment process, reducing travel time.
Convenience: Eliminates the need for cash transactions, providing a seamless travel experience.
Safety: Reduces the risk of accidents at toll booths due to sudden stops or long queues.