The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has ordered the suspension of the looming implementation of cashless collection in major expressways in Luzon amid concerns raised by motorists.
DOTr Secretary Vivencio Dizon announced the suspension of its implementation, believing it is not the right time to implement the cashless system since it is still far from perfect. The cashless toll policy was supposed to take effect this March 15 in major toll expressways in Luzon.
Motorists and several labor groups described the system as “anti-poor” as some might not have the financial capability to load their RFID accounts.
In a letter sent to Malacañang Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT) president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said the group strongly opposed the proposed cashless toll policy (CTP) “which is not only extortionary and anti-poor, but is also costly and cumbersome.”
Instead of the RFID system, exporters recommended including issuing cards that are transferable to other vehicles and valid in all tollways regardless of the operator to facilitate easier compliance and lessen the amount that may have to be deposited.
“The issue of compatibility of systems should be the responsibility of the operators and should not be passed on to motorists,” he said.
Further, Ortiz-Luis said dedicated cash lanes in all tollways serve as assistance to ordinary motorists, including workers, provincial drivers and even micro and small enterprises.
