Motorists who do not have yet radio-frequency identification (RFIDs) by November 2 will still be allowed on tollways managed by the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) after the firm decided to extend the installation of RFID stickers beyond the initial deadline.
MPTC runs the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), Cavite Expressway (CAVITEZ), C5 Link, and CALAX.
In a statement on Saturday, the MPTC said motorists will still be allowed passage on these tollways but will be directed to the RFID installation lanes where they can have their RFID stickers installed.
"We will convert some of the remaining cash lanes in all toll plazas of MPTC expressways to RFID installation lanes. At the same time, the off-site customer service stations will continue to operate and install RFID stickers," MPTC Chief of Technology and MPT South President and General Manager Roberto Bontia said.
Bontia added that stickers will still be given and installed for free except for the initial load where the corresponding toll fee charge for their passage on that day will be deducted.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade signed in August this year a department order requiring all toll operators to have 100 per cent of their facilities on electronic toll collection by November 2, as part of the DOTr's efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease through limited physical contact.
Aside from the drive-thru installation lanes in entry toll plazas, other RFID installation and reloading sites in various locations will remain open.
"There's no need for those who will not travel on November 2 or infrequent expressway travelers to be in a rush to get the RFID stickers since they can have the RFID installed on the day of their travel. This is to avoid overcrowding and long queues at the installation sites," NLEX Corporation President and General Manager Luigi Bautista said.
"MPTC is aware that this is also a transition period for the motorists who have paid cash for the longest time. In anticipation, we will have our RFID Assist Squads positioned at the toll plaza as it has always been our priority to help any motorist who would like to use our expressways at any time," he added.
The tollway company also reminded the public to avail of their Easytrip RFID stickers at authorized customer service stations only.