Commuters in Metro Manila can soon enjoy more convenient train rides as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is set to implement a cashless payment system for MRT and LRT passengers beginning July.
DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon confirmed the move, saying riders will no longer need to buy or reload a Beep card. Instead, they can simply tap their debit or credit cards, or use mobile wallets like GCash and PayMaya, to pay for their trips directly at the turnstiles.
“Mga bandang July ito, if I’m not mistaken. I-implement na natin sa MRT at sa ibang mga tren natin. Alam ko pati credit card puwede na. Ita-tap mo na lang ‘yung phone mo,” Dizon said during a recent interview.
He also noted his surprise that the system wasn’t introduced earlier. “Nagtaka nga ako bakit hindi ito kaagad na-implement,” he added.
This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to modernize public transport and ensure that infrastructure projects are completed efficiently and on time. The President earlier instructed government agencies to adopt globally recognized systems that enhance the daily experience of Filipinos.
Dizon emphasized that the upcoming system will be an open-loop payment structure—designed to accept multiple financial platforms—mirroring the accessible, cashless transit services seen in advanced countries.
“Nakikita na naman natin ito sa ibang bansa. So, iyon ang sabi ng ating Pangulo, gawin na rin natin ‘yung mga modern facilities sa ibang bansa dito para sa mga kababayan natin,” Dizon said.
The DOTr is coordinating with financial institutions and transport operators to ensure a seamless rollout. Public education campaigns and pilot tests are scheduled in the weeks leading up to the July launch.
