The strict enforcement of cashless or contactless toll collection on expressways will resume starting March 15.
This follows a dry run conducted over the past few months to prepare motorists for the system.
According to the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), vehicles passing through expressways must use a valid Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) Device or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) sticker.
The cashless toll collection program was initially implemented in December 2020 but was suspended due to operational issues.
“This program intends to optimize the use of all toll lanes and plazas through the utilization of the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) System,” the TRB explained in a statement.
As a result, all vehicles without an RFID sticker will still be allowed to pass through toll lanes or plazas but will be required to install an ETC Device or RFID sticker.
“However, the Land Transportation Office (LTO), through its deputized personnel, will issue either a Temporary Operator’s Permit or a Show Cause Order against them for violating the ‘No Valid ETC Device, No Entry’ policy under the DOTr/LTO/TRB’s Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2024-001, and they will face the corresponding penalties,” the TRB added.
The TRB noted that long queues often form at toll lanes due to cash payments.
“It is expected that a better and more efficient flow of traffic will result once these lanes are strictly used for ETC only,” the TRB stated.