NLEX, SCTEX, CAVITEX to implement 3-strike insufficient RFID load rule

MPTC will begin penalizing users with insufficient load

Last week, the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) confirmed that a 3-strike policy against RFID users that constantly pass through expressways without enough load will be imposed. The policy will be implemented starting May 15, 2021, and it will result in violators getting a ticket and a PHP 1,000 fine for the third offense.

Before it can be implemented, however, the TRB asked toll operators to conduct an intensified information campaign to inform road users. Julius Corpuz, the spokesperson for the TRB, hopes that toll operators will be able to comply before the May 15, 2021, deadline.

Yesterday, Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) announced that they will begin implementing the 3-strike policy next week. This was confirmed by Bobby Bontia, president and general manager of Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South).

With it, all expressways under MPTC will soon begin fining motorists that don’t have enough load on their RFID in their third offense. These include toll roads that use EasyTrip RFID such as NLEX, SCTEX, CALAX, C5 Link, and CAVITEX.

“Hopefully, once the guidelines are ironed out, we can start [implementing] by that time,” said Bontia.

For now, both MPTC and MPT South are coordinating with the TRB to finalize the guidelines regarding the 3-strike policy. They have already started the information campaign as a way to inform motorists of the upcoming policy.

Under the TRB’s 3-strike policy, motorists are only given two chances to enter an expressway without enough load. By the third strike, they will be slapped with a ‘disregarding traffic signs’ violation, and be fined PHP 1,000. To make matters worse, Corpuz added that the violator’s driver’s license will also be confiscated.

If you're planning to use NLEX, CALAX, CAVITEX, C5 Link, or SCTEX next week, make sure to top up your Easytrip RFID before heading out.