MMDA mulls prepaid fare scheme for buses, jeepneys

MANILA, Philippines – Prepaid cards may be used for buses and jeepneys in the future, said a Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Francis Tolentino Friday.

Tolentino said that they were looking into creating an “integrated transportation system” for passenger buses in Metro Manila, similar to those used in trains.

Taking their cue from the transport system in Seoul, Korea, Tolentino revealed that they planned to implement the prepaid scheme for buses and jeepneys as well as in two main bus terminals, strategically positioned to cater to commuters from the southern and northern areas of Metro Manila.

“The two integrated bus terminals in the north and south will provide ease and convenience to the riding public. [They will also] declog Edsa of bus terminals,” said Tolentino.

He said that the North terminal may be placed in Balintawak while the Southern terminal may be positioned in Pasay City.

Tolentino said they were hopeful that the plan for the integrated transportation system would push through within 2011.