TRB: Re-implmentation of Contractless Program to go on tilll end of 2023
The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) announced that the dry-run for the re-implementation of the Contactless Program will be extended for an additional two months.
This will push the trial period from its original end date of November 1, 2023, to now conclude on December 31, 2023.
All toll plazas that were previously deemed qualified for the dry-run will continue their operations without interruption until the end of the year.
Furthermore, TRB is in the process of evaluating the remaining non-qualified toll plazas for their possible inclusion in this extended dry-run.
It was emphasized that any subsequent decision regarding the participation of these yet-to-be-included toll plazas would be communicated to the public through official advisories.
A successful outcome of this extended trial might pave the way for the complete Re-implementation of the Contactless Program, potentially commencing on January 1, 2024.
Tollway users have been advised by the board to either acquire or make use of their Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems.
Moreover, ensuring that these RFIDs have ample load will be crucial for travelers to experience a smoother and more efficient journey across the expressways.
The Philippines has a complex network of expressways designed to improve connectivity and reduce travel times across the archipelago. Major toll systems such as the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Skyway, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and the Southern Tagalog Arterial Road, commonly known as the Star Tollway, have been pivotal in achieving this aim.
Each of these expressways has played a significant role in regional connectivity, facilitating business, tourism, and daily commuting for millions of Filipinos.
The push towards contactless toll systems such as the RFID has been in the works for several years now.
RFID, which stands for Radio Frequency Identification, is a technology that uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects, in this case, vehicles.
The tags contain electronically stored information which, when scanned at the toll gates, allows for the automated deduction of toll fees, ensuring a quicker and more efficient toll collection process.
The transition towards the adoption of this technology was primarily driven by the need for more efficient toll collection mechanisms that reduce manual interventions, leading to faster travel times and decreased traffic congestions at toll gates.
Furthermore, in light of the global pandemic, the need for contactless transactions became even more pronounced, ensuring safety for both the travelers and the toll gate personnel.
The initial roll-out of the RFID system in Philippine expressways faced several challenges, including technical glitches, motorist complaints, and the logistics of ensuring all vehicles had the necessary tags in place.
Despite these initial hiccups, the system’s potential to revolutionize toll gate transactions and the push towards a more modern and efficient transportation infrastructure remained undeniable.
The recent announcement by the TRB made it clear that efforts are being redoubled to ensure that the transition to the RFID system across all expressways in the Philippines is both efficient and effective.
While this dry-run continues, travelers are being encouraged to be a part of this transition, ensuring their vehicles are RFID-equipped and adequately loaded.
This move by the TRB represents a clear commitment to modernizing the nation’s transportation systems, streamlining processes, and ensuring that Filipino motorists experience smoother, faster, and safer travels in the years to come.