MANILA, Philippines — Beginning August 31, motorists passing through expressways without a radio frequency identification (RFID) or with an RFID but without enough load to pass through the expressways will be penalized.
In a statement, the announcement follows Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2024-001, which was signed by the Department of Transportation, Land Transportation Office, and Toll Regulatory Board on August 1. However, it was only shared with the press on August 21.
The memo said that drivers need to get an electronic toll device, such as an RFID tag, attach it to their vehicles, and make sure their accounts have enough balance to cover their toll fees.
Here are the monetary sanctions for violating the order:
Entering a tollway without an RFID sticker:
- First offense – P1,000
- Second offense – P2,000
- Third offense – P5,000
Leaving the toll expressway with insufficient balance:
- First offense — P500
- Second offense — P1,000
- Subsequent offenses — P2,500
Using fake, tampered, or counterfeit RFID devices and e-cards will incur the following penalties:
- First offense – P1,000
- Second offense – P2,000
- Subsequent offenses – P5,000 per offense
The TRB said that the memo aims to enhance traffic flow at toll plazas, helping motorists save time, money, and resources. They also noted that nine percent of motorists using tollways currently lack RFID tags or sufficient load balance.
The TRB likewise said that the remaining 91 percent of motorists who are compliant often face significant inconvenience due to those who are not following the rules.
