CAVITEX Cashless Policy: RFID Payments Mandatory Starting September 14

Motorists using the Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (CAVITEX) should prepare for a significant change beginning 14 Sep 2024. Starting on that date, the CAVITEX cashless policy will take effect and  will officially shift to RFID-only payments, with cash lanes being completely phased out. This will affect all toll gates along CAVITEX, including key entry points at Parañaque and Kawit.

Also read: RFID Fine Enforcement Begins August 31: How to Stay Penalty-Free

What we know about the CAVITEX cashless policy

For drivers who have yet to get their RFID sticker, there’s still time to make the switch. Stickers can be purchased at CAVITEX Customer Service Centers or at EasyTrip tents located along the expressway. These are available at multiple locations such as Kawit, Longos, and Merville. This last-minute window is crucial because, starting October 1, stricter enforcement will come into play, with fines imposed on motorists without a functioning RFID.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has announced that fines will range from ₱1,000 for a first offence to ₱5,000 for subsequent violations. If you don’t have an RFID or if your sticker isn’t working properly by 1 Oct 2024, you could face these penalties. As a result, it’s important for drivers to ensure their RFID is properly installed and regularly topped up to avoid any inconvenience.

RFID Purchase and Reload Points

Motorists can easily get their RFID sticker or reload their accounts at several convenient locations. CAVITEX Customer Service Centers along both Cavite and Manila-bound routes are ready to assist. Additional RFID services are available at EasyTrip tents in Kawit, Longos (Manila-bound), and at Merville (CAVITEX C5 Link, East and Westbound entries). With multiple points to purchase or reload, drivers have plenty of options to ensure they are ready for the full RFID transition.

Moving Towards a Cashless System

The push for contactless toll transactions was initially driven by the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) Department Order No. 2020-12, implemented as a precaution against COVID-19 transmission. The idea has since evolved into a long-term strategy to improve traffic flow on the country’s expressways.

This initiative gained momentum in September 2023 when the TRB conducted a two-month dry run for contactless payment collection. During that period, motorists without an RFID sticker were still allowed to pay cash in RFID lanes, but now, this option is no longer available.

Also read: CAVITEX Prepares for Major Traffic Scheme Dry Run Ahead of CALAX Link Construction

With RFID payments becoming the new standard at CAVITEX, motorists are encouraged to transition early to avoid the last-minute rush and potential penalties come October. What do you think of the CAVITEX cashless policy?

All image credit goes to CAVITEX | Official Website