Manila: Senator Grace Poe on Friday raised concerns over the planned implementation of cashless toll plazas starting Oct. 1, citing issues of unreliable devices, lack of RFID (radio frequency identification) installation venues, and the absence of a single RFID for all tollways. Based on a joint memorandum circular signed by Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, motorists without an electronic toll collection device will face a fine of PHP1,000 for a first offense, PHP2,000 for a second offense and PHP5,000 for the third offense. In a statement, Poe emphasized the need for reliable technology and accessible RFID installation points to ensure a smooth transition. "Before imposing penalties on motorists, concerned agencies and operators must ensure that all their devices are reliable and glitch-free," Poe said. "Transport authorities should also keep a lane for cash payments for unforeseen circumstances like the scanners that do not work." Amid promises of seamless and efficient toll collections, Poe sa id motorists deserve quality service for the fees they pay. "With the imposition of the toll fees, a seamless and efficient toll collection technology is what was promised to road users," the senator said. In 2021, the Toll Regulatory Board mandated that tollways allocate one lane for cash payments and the rest for the ETC (electronic toll collection) system. This decision was influenced by the fact that 9 percent of motorists contribute to traffic congestion at toll plazas by not loading their ETC accounts beforehand. Bautista supported the transition to cashless payments, believing it will enhance traffic flow on toll roads. Source: Philippines News Agency