Toll concessionaires and operators of the country’s expressways have expressed strong support for the government’s initiative to reimplement the Cashless/Contactless Toll Collection Policy, in line with Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2024-001 issued by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Land Transportation Office (LTO), and Toll Regulatory Board (TRB).
The reimplementation of the cashless toll collection policy will come into effect on March 15, 2025, in compliance with the government’s mandate.
In a joint statement, SMC Infrastructure, Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC), MCX Tollway Inc., Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), PEA Tollway Corporation (PEATC) said this policy is vital in addressing ongoing traffic congestion at toll plazas, improving safety, and enhancing convenience for motorists.
Citing TRB data, the toll operators said a significant 97% of expressway users already use an Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) Device or RFID Sticker for toll payments.
The toll operators are thus calling on the remaining 3% of motorists who continue to pay in cash to make the switch to RFID for a faster, more efficient, and seamless toll experience.
“Getting an RFID is simple and hassle-free,” said the joint statement issued by the toll operators.
“Installation is free, and there is no minimum load or maintaining balance required. Reloading your account is easy, with several convenient options available through customer service centers, kiosks, banks, e-wallets, and other payment platforms,” they said.
However, feedback from some members of the driving public have expressed concerns regarding the RFID system. While many express support for the move to cashless tolling, citing the convenience and speed it offers, others have raised frustrations regarding faulty RFID tags and the inconvenience of having to reload their accounts regularly.
Some motorists said they have experienced how their RFID is not being detected properly, which causes delays and traffic build-up. They said that sometimes the kiosk machines are out of service, or the online platforms are glitchy.
Motorists are encouraged to stay informed and up-to-date on their toll transactions by ensuring their contact details, including email and mobile number, are updated in their RFID accounts. This allows them to receive account notifications and monthly statements. Official RFID mobile apps are also available, providing a quick way to check balances, reload accounts, and calculate toll fees.
“As toll operators, we are committed to continuously improving our systems to provide safer, faster, and more convenient expressway travel for all,” they said.
