In case you missed the update, the implementation of the ‘no valid ETC device, no entry’ policy on tollways will begin on March 15, 2025. Basically, a motorist who enters an expressway without the correct RFID sticker affixed to their vehicle will be required to have one installed on the spot, and will also be issued either a temporary operator’s permit or a show-cause order by deputized personnel.
The penalty also applies when there is an RFID sticker, but it is dilapidated and cannot be read by the electronic toll collection system (ETC).
You may recall that cashless and contactless toll collection was first attempted by the government in December 2020. However, it was called off due to the lack of preparation on the part of...well, everyone, really—toll operators, motorists (obviously, getting an RFID sticker wasn’t anyone’s priority during the COVID-19 pandemic), and the government agencies tasked with implementing the policy themselves.
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Following the announcement of the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) regarding the March 15 implementation, toll concessionaires and operators issued a joint statement saying that they “fully support” the initiative to bring back cashless and contactless toll collection through Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2024-001 (JMC 2024-001).
The statement adds that based on TRB data, “97% of expressway users already use an ETC device/RFID sticker for toll payments. With the reimplementation of the cashless/contactless toll collection policy, we encourage the remaining 3% of motorists who still pay in cash to switch to RFID for a faster, more efficient, and seamless toll experience.”
It reiterated that RFID installation is free, and that there is no maintaining balance required on any RFID wallet, whether Easytrip or Autosweep.
“To stay updated on transactions, we encourage motorists to update their contact
details, including email and mobile number, to receive account notifications and
monthly statements,” the statement reads. “The official RFID mobile apps are also available for quick balance checks, reloading, and toll fee calculations.”
Under JMC 2024-001, the penalties for having no valid ETC device are as follows:
No valid ETC device (no RFID installed or dilapidated RFID sticker)
- First offense – P1,000
- Second offense – P2,000
- Subsequent offenses – P5,000 per offense
JMC 2024-001 also provides penalties for motorists with insufficient load, but the TRB announcement hasn’t mentioned anything about the implementation of this rule. For now, the focus is on enforcing the ‘no valid ETC device, no entry’ policy.
“This policy plays a key role in easing traffic at toll plazas, improving safety and
convenience for motorists, and optimizing expressway operations,” toll operators said in their joint statement.
Are you among the 3% of users who have yet to install an Autosweep or Easytrip RFID on your vehicle? If yes, what has been your reason for putting it off? Let us know in the comments.
