The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has officially announced the return of mandatory cashless toll collection on all expressways across the country, beginning March 15, 2025. This initiative aims to streamline traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance efficiency in toll operations.
Under the updated policy, all vehicles using toll roads must have a valid Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) device or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) sticker installed before entry. Motorists without an RFID sticker will still be allowed to pass through toll gates but must have one installed at designated areas near the toll plazas or installation sites.
To ensure compliance, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) will issue citations to motorists without valid RFID stickers under the “No Valid ETC Device, No Entry” policy, as outlined in the Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2024-001 by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), LTO, and TRB. Violators will receive a Temporary Operator’s Permit or a Show Cause Order, with corresponding penalties.
Addressing traffic congestion
The TRB emphasized that cash-paying motorists often cause heavy congestion at toll plazas, affecting the smooth traffic flow. By enforcing cashless toll transactions, expressway operators expect a significant reduction in wait times, leading to a more efficient road network.
“We anticipate a faster and more seamless travel experience for all motorists once these lanes are designated exclusively for RFID users,” the TRB said.
Call for motorists to install RFID early
The TRB urged vehicle owners who have yet to install an RFID sticker to do so as soon as possible to avoid penalties and inconvenience.
Expressway operators and RFID service providers have been directed to increase installation sites, expand loading options, and conduct outreach programs such as caravans and corporate events to ensure widespread system adoption.
Moreover, RFID installation will remain free of charge, and no balance maintenance is required. Motorists only need to load their RFID accounts with the toll fees needed for their travel.
Expressway operators back the initiative
Major tollway operators, including San Miguel Infrastructure, Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), MCX Tollway Inc., the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) and its subsidiary PEA Tollway Corp. (PEATC), have expressed their full support for the TRB’s cashless toll collection policy.
In a joint statement, these operators emphasized the system’s benefits, stating, “This policy plays a key role in easing traffic at toll plazas, improving safety and convenience for motorists, and optimizing expressway operations.”
Looking ahead
With the March 15 implementation date fast approaching, authorities are ramping up efforts to ensure a smooth transition. Motorists are strongly encouraged to secure their RFID stickers early to avoid last-minute issues and potential fines.
The reimplementation of cashless toll collection is expected to improve the overall driving experience on the country’s expressways, providing faster, safer, and more efficient travel for all road users.