It&rsquo;s time to check your RFID stickers! Starting on October 1, having a faulty or low-balance RFID could land you a hefty fine. The Toll Regulatory Board&rsquo;s new policy aims to make your drive smoother, cutting down wait times at toll plazas, but it comes with stricter rules.
According to Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2024-001 issued by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), if you pass through a non-cash toll gate without an RFID sticker, expect fines ranging from P1,000 for the first offense to P5,000 for repeated violations. Even having insufficient balance isn&rsquo;t cheap, with penalties starting at P500 and increasing with each offense.
This move is part of a broader push by the government to make cashless transactions the norm on expressways. Originally sparked by the need to reduce physical contact during the pandemic, it&rsquo;s now all about efficiency. The fines are a reminder to keep your RFID in check before hitting the road.
So, before your next trip, make sure your Autosweep or Easytrip is loaded and functioning. A little preparation could save you from a bigger headache&mdash;and a lighter wallet. Safe travels!