Labor group welcomes suspension of cashless toll policy; questions TRB’s “bias toward toll operators”

Philippines Graphic
By Philippines Graphic
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The NAGKAISA Labor Coalition has welcomed the suspension of the mandatory cashless toll collection system, citing its unfair impact on low-income motorists.

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Atty. Sonny Matula, NAGKAISA chairperson and senatorial candidate under the Workers’ and Peasants’ Party (WPP)

“This is a win for our advocacy and will benefit workers and motorists who will be burdened by an anti-poor policy. We commend Transport Secretary Vince Dizon for recognizing the unfairness  and taking action,” said Atty. Sonny Matula, NAGKAISA chairperson and senatorial candidate under the Workers’ and Peasants’ Party (WPP).

Matula, who is  also the president of the Federation of Free Workers (FFW), questioned the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) for expressing  strong support for the policy.

“Are TRB officials allowing themselves to be used for the benefit of greedy toll operators? Why is TRB prioritizing their profits over motorists’ rights?” he asked.

Nagkaisa and the FFW called on the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the TRB to ensure that cash remains an option for toll payments.

The labor coalition likewise urged both government agencies to put a stop on excessive penalties for insufficient RFID balance and to refrain from holding toll operators accountable for system failures.

 “Suspending the policy is just the first step. We need long-term reforms to protect motorists from unfair toll practices,” Matula concluded.

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Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.

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