DepEd backs DOTr’s 50% train fare discount for students until 2028

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Education Secretary Sonny Angara.

MANILA, Philippines — In line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive, the Department of Education (DepEd) will assist the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in rolling out the 50-percent fare discount for students on MRT and LRT lines.

The program will run until 2028 to ease the cost of education-related travel.

READ: Student train fare discount raised to 50% starting June 20 – DOTr

“We continue to improve the service of the MRT and LRT. The former 20-percent discount on the LRT and MRT for PWDs, seniors, and students has now been increased to 50 percen,” Marcos said in Filipino during the 2025 State of the Nation Address.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. with Education Secretary Sonny Angara.

The initiative, which began in June this year, covers learners in basic and higher education — from kindergarten to graduate school — including Alternative Learning System (ALS) and Special Education (SPED) students. The discount applies every time a student rides the train, with no daily or monthly cap.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the measure, which will continue until 2028, is a direct boost to access and equity in education.

Transport Secretary Vince Dizon and Education Secretary Sonny Angara.

“When a family saves on fares, they have more opportunities to use that money for books and other educational tools they need. This is a big relief for our students,” Angara said in Filipino.

“DepEd will do its part to ensure schools and parents know about this benefit. We want every learner, from Metro Manila to the farthest regions, to feel the government’s support,” he added.

For its part, the DOTr said all train lines in Metro Manila already honor the 50-percent fare discount. Beyond the capital, Libreng Sakay programs are being piloted in Cebu and Davao, with modern jeepneys and buses deployed in select routes. More routes in both cities are set to launch soon.

“It’s not just the discount that’s important. The President said their experience should not be a burden. If you are a student, you can go to any station, show your ID, and right then and there your student beep card will be printed,” Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said in Filipino.

To avail, students only need to present a valid school ID or enrollment form. Starting September, students can apply for special white Beep cards in train stations, which will automatically apply the discount without the need to line up for single-journey tickets.

DOTr said student ridership is being tracked through discounted ticket data. A commuter hotline (0920-964-3687) and official social media channels are available for complaints if students are denied access despite eligibility.

DepEd and DOTr will work together to harmonize guidelines and amplify public awareness.

“This is a concrete step in making education less of a burden for Filipino families,” Angara said.

“If the trip to school is easier and cheaper, children can focus more on their studies,” he added in Filipino.