DOTr eyes automatic fare collection in Edsa busways before year-end

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Wednesday said that an automated fare collection system (AFCS) may be implemented before 2026 ends.

This is to promote a hassle-free commuting for passengers. 

According to Transport Secretary Giovanni Lopez, bus operators will be required to implement cashless options for fares in every busway station along Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (Edsa).

AFCS is currently being utilized in Light Rail Transit 1 and Metro Rail Transit 3 where commuters can pay their fares through stored value cards, credit and debit cards, electronic wallets, and other digital modes of payments. 

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“I instructed the LTFRB for the operators to provide the automatic fare collection system until December in our busways,” Lopez said in a press release.

“They have to provide that to ensure a more convenient commute experience for our commuters,” he noted.

Lopez said that cashless options may include the use of stored value cards and electronic wallets, which are already being utilized in train stations. 

Lopez then urged the operators to establish kiosks in every Edsa busway station for commuters so they can load their cashless payment methods. 

READ: LTFRB: Approved fare hike for Edsa busway at P18

“This has to be interoperable and can be integrated with other payment platforms and e-wallets,” Lopez added.

Meanwhile, the secretary clarified that the implementation of AFCS will not increase fares for Edsa busways.

He also said that no convenience fee will be collected from passengers once this is already launched. /apl