The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) announced the reimplementation of cashless or contactless toll collection on all expressways across the country beginning March 15, 2025. The decision follows months of dry-run operations to address previous issues encountered when the program was first introduced in December 2020.
According to the TRB, all motor vehicles traveling on toll expressways will be required to have a valid Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) device or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) sticker installed. The agency emphasized that the initiative aims to optimize the efficiency of toll lanes and reduce congestion caused by cash transactions.
Mandatory RFID Installation
Starting March 15, motorists without a valid ETC device or RFID sticker will still be allowed to enter the toll plaza. However, they will be directed to a designated area after the toll booth or the nearest installation site to have an RFID sticker installed.
The TRB observed that cash payment lanes often experience long lines, causing bottlenecks and slowing down traffic flow even in RFID-designated lanes. With the shift to full cashless transactions, the agency expects a smoother and more efficient toll collection process.
To facilitate the transition, motorists are encouraged to secure their RFID stickers early to avoid penalties and travel delays. The installation of the RFID devices is free, with no required maintaining balance. Users can load just enough to cover their toll fees.
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Efforts to Improve Accessibility
In preparation for the program's reimplementation, tollway operators and RFID service providers have committed to enhancing their services. They plan to establish more installation sites, provide various loading options, and organize outreach activities like caravans and corporate events. Installation sites will also be strategically positioned near major toll entry points.
Support from Tollway Operators
Key players in the tollway industry have expressed their support for the government’s initiative. San Miguel Infrastructure, Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC), MCX Tollway Inc., Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), and PEA Tollway Corp. (PEATC) issued a joint statement backing the program.
"We, the toll concessionaires operating the country's expressways, fully support the government's initiative to reimplement the Cashless/Contactless Toll Collection Policy through Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2024-001 issued by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Land Transportation Office (LTO), and TRB," the statement read.
The TRB assured the public that the improved system will address the technical and operational issues encountered during its initial rollout in 2020. Motorists are advised to stay updated on further announcements and visit official RFID installation sites to prepare for the upcoming transition.
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