The RFID Saga continues: Cashless tollways postponed ‘until further notice’

Romar Fernando

January 19, 2021

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  Photo Credit: ABS-CBN News

  One of the biggest blunders of 2020 is the transition of all tollways into 100% cashless, hence, the radio frequency identification (RFID) system.

  For months, motorists and tollway operators had been into cha-cha dance craze just to scramble in meeting the deadline set by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Toll Regulatory Board (TRB).

  And just last week, the TRB had just moved the January 11 deadline again. This time, the cashless transition is indefinitely suspended.

  “This means cash payments will still be accepted, motorists without RFID tags will not be apprehended and RFID subscription and installation continues in many locations identified by the toll road operators,” TRB spokesperson Julius Corpuz said on Monday, January 11.

  

  Photo Credit: ABS-CBN News

  The decision was made primarily to give due consideration to motorists yet unable to install their vehicles with RFID tags as well as to give toll operators enough time to address all remaining glitches they’re encountering.

  Originally, the deadline to implement the full cashless system was November 2. It was then moved to December 1 to give consideration to motorists who haven’t installed their tags yet.

  The TRB is said to provide a specific timeline after this development.

  So, thinking about this, can you imagine how motorists will react after the 2020’s hustle and bustle? What’s your take on this?

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