The management of the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3 is working to install free Wi-Fi at all stations in preparation for the cashless payment system by July 1, 2025.
“We are looking at additional internet providers that will give us Wi-Fi that is free of charge,” MRT3 general manager Michael Capati said during the radio program “Sakay Na.”
The installation of free Wi-Fi at all MRT3 stations is part of preparations for the cashless payment rollout on July 1, 2025.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will soon allow LRT and MRT passengers to pay using debit or credit cards and even mobile wallet platforms such as GCash and PayMaya.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered Cabinet members and agency heads to complete government projects on time and within budget to prevent delays that impact Filipinos’ daily needs.
DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon said they would start deploying cashless turnstiles for the automatic fare collection (AFC) system in the LRT and MRT this July, eliminating the need to purchase or reload a Beep card, the contactless, stored-value smart card used for paying fares on the LRT and MRT lines.
Dizon said commuters would be able to tap their phone or card at the turnstile or the mechanical gate, which consists of revolving horizontal arms fixed to a vertical post.
President Marcos also ordered the DOTr to develop an open-loop payment system that is integrated with multiple financial platforms. Such a system aims to replicate the seamless and inclusive systems employed by leading global transit networks.
“We are seeing this n in other countries. So, that’s what our President said, let’s also build the modern facilities in other countries here for our countrymen,” Dizon said.
The DOTr is working with transport operators and financial service providers to ensure a smooth rollout of the upgraded fare collection systems.
Dizon said transport visual cues and signages at transport hubs should ensure smooth and hassle-free travel for passengers.
“Signages and way finders are very important in airports, train systems, bus stops because they add to the comfort of the commuter experience,” Dizon said.
Dizon maintained that signages and visual cues should pass international standards for uniformity with other rail lines, as well as clear and visible fonts and globally-accepted design after he ordered the removal of a donated station signage at the MRT-3 Shaw Station, which drew flak from commuters.
