Reloadable ‘tap and go’ system to replace magnetized tickets on MRT, LRT lines

A new "tap and go" ticket system will be gradually implemented on Metro Manila's train lines starting this month to help alleviate long lines at stations.

 

The new ticket system will use RFID technology and will replace the magnetized tickets now in use. With the RFID tickets, passengers no longer have to rummage through their bags and pockets to find the ticket as long as these can be detected at the gates.

 

The stored value tickets can be used on the LRT-1, LRT-2, and the MRT-3. They can be loaded with up to P10,000 pesos worth and can be bought and loaded at train stations and retail stores.
 

Single journey tickets however can only be used at the specific station where it is bought and will only be valid until the specified destination.

 

Laywer Hernando Cabrera, spokesman for the MRT and LRT, said the "contactless" system will avoid the problems that come with the current magnetized tickets. He added the load on the stored value cards will be valid for four years.

The tickets will no longer have a free "bonus ride", which, Cabrera said, was caused by limitations of the magnetized ticketing system. 

 

PWDs and senior citizens will have special tickets but these will be color coded and the misuse of discounted tickets by passengers not qualified for discounts will mean confication of the "tap and go" card. 

 

Tickets are also color coded to avoid confusion: green for LRT-1, yellow for MRT-3 and light blue for LRT-2.

 

The implementation of the new ticketing system will be done gradually until all machines are replaced with RFID-equipped gates. — Jay Sabale/JDS, GMA News