THE Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection commends the recent statement of PEA Tollway Corporation Chairman Engr. Anthony Peter Crisologo expressing support for the adoption of additional toll payment modes, such as e-wallets and debit/credit cards. This move aligns with LCSP’s continuing advocacy for commuter-centric reforms and reflects a progressive approach toward making our toll systems more inclusive and efficient.
The PEATC, a government-owned and controlled corporation, operates and maintains the Cavite Expressway—the only remaining tollway in the country currently managed by the government through a GOCC. As such, if CAVITEX were to pioneer the implementation of these digital payment innovations, it would not only benefit thousands of motorists but also serve as a model for other tollway operators across the Philippines. The leadership shown by PEATC can be a catalyst for modernization throughout the country’s toll systems.
Earlier this year, LCSP issued a public statement urging the Department of Transportation and the Toll Regulatory Board to implement similar reforms across all tollways. That statement was made in response to DOTr’s announcement that LRT and MRT lines would soon allow commuters to use credit and debit cards, as well as mobile wallet platforms like GCash and Maya, to pay fares—eliminating the need for stored-value Beep cards and long queues at ticket booths.
In that earlier statement, LCSP emphasized the need to bring similar convenience and flexibility to motorists using our major tollways, which are currently limited to payments through RFID systems. LCSP reiterates the advantages of enabling motorists to pay toll fees directly via e-wallets or cards:
1. Exact Fare Deductions – Avoiding locked-in balances and allowing motorists to pay only what is due;
2. Greater Convenience – Faster and more flexible reloading options through widely-used digital platforms;
3. Reduced Delays – Addressing issues that cause congestion at toll plazas due to malfunctioning RFID stickers.
As we push for these reforms, we view PEATC’s initiative not only as a timely response to the needs of motorists, but also as an affirmation of the government’s commitment to upgrading our transportation systems. If implemented promptly and effectively at CAVITEX, this innovation may well inspire private tollway operators to follow suit, in the spirit of inclusive and responsive public service.
LCSP remains committed to advocating for commuter-friendly reforms in both public and private transportation systems, and will continue to engage with government agencies and stakeholders to realize a more modern, efficient, and equitable transport infrastructure for all.
Atty. Albert N. Sadili
Spokesperson – Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection (LCSP)
09660859816 – Viber and mobile number
