Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vivencio Dizon gained support for his decisive action in suspending the mandatory full cashless payment system on expressways.
CLICK Partylist said it has long maintained that imposing penalties on motorists for non-compliance with the radio-frequency identification (RFID) system is anti-poor and creates unnecessary burdens for ordinary Filipinos, especially those who rely on cash transactions for their daily transportation needs.
Dizon’s statement that such a mandate “makes the lives of people difficult” is a testament to his commitment to a fair and people-centered transportation policy, the group said.
CLICK Partylist earlier raised concerns over the premature implementation of the RFID system, citing technical issues such as undetectable RFID tags, faulty barriers and unreliable top-up mechanisms.
These led to traffic congestion, unwarranted penalties and frustrations among motorists, it said.
The group said Dizon’s decision to prioritize system improvements before any mandatory implementation is a welcome move and a victory for Filipino motorists.
“We commend Secretary Vince Dizon for listening to the concerns of the people and making a decision that prioritizes the welfare of the commuting public. This is a pro-people, pro-poor stance that we fully support, and it reflects the position that CLICK has advocated since the issue of RFID penalties was first raised last year,” said CLICK Partylist first nominee Atty. Nicasio Conti.
CLICK Partylist said while it supports the modernization of toll collection systems, it has consistently called for a more inclusive, gradual and well-implemented approach to ensure that no Filipino is unfairly penalized due to technical failures or economic constraints.
It said Dizon’s decision is a step in the right direction. “We look forward to working with the DOTr in crafting policies that balance innovation with public welfare,” it said.
“We remain committed to fighting for accessible, fair and technologically sound solutions in the country’s transportation and digital infrastructure. We urge the government to continue engaging with stakeholders to ensure that any future policy changes serve the best interests of all Filipinos,” it said.