300K beep cards to hit tracks next week, end shortage

Train commuters can expect relief next week as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) rolls out 300,000 additional beep cards to end the supply crunch that caused long queues and inflated resale prices. 

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said on Wednesday that the shipment, to be delivered by operator AF Payments Inc., will address the shortage across Metro Manila's train lines.

“By next week, we will no longer have a shortage of beep cards. Beep Card will be completing a delivery of 300,000 additional cards across MRT-3, LRT-1, and LRT-2. That’s the shortage we computed,” Dizon said.

Dizon also warned against syndicates hoarding beep cards and reselling them for as much as P300 each. 

“There are syndicates buying up cards at the stations. We are coordinating with the PNP and SAICT. We will monitor every station to catch these troublemakers. We will have them arrested and jailed,” he said.

Likewise, the DOTr is also in talks with online selling platforms to block groups illegally reselling beep cards.

Separately, LRT-1 operator Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) has simplified the process for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities to avail of their 50 percent fare discount on Single Journey Tickets. 

Eligible passengers now only need to present a valid ID at teller booths, removing the need to fill out forms.

“We are constantly looking for ways to make the LRT-1 experience more convenient and efficient for our passengers,” LRMC President and CEO Enrico R. Benipayo said in a statement. 

The change, developed in cooperation with the DOTr, will shorten transaction times and provide a more seamless experience for discount-eligible passengers.