Commuters on the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) can now pay for their rides using Mastercard credit, debit, and prepaid cards, as the rail system launches its contactless payment option starting today.
The new system, enabled by tapping cards or compatible NFC-enabled Android devices at designated turnstiles, is a key milestone in the country’s shift toward a digital, cashless transport system.
Mastercard’s “Tap & Go” technology also works with select e-wallets, offering greater convenience for daily travelers. This marks Mastercard’s first implementation of an open-loop fare payment system in Metro Manila, building on its global transit integrations in cities like London and Singapore.
The initiative is part of a broader push for smart mobility in Southeast Asia, made possible through cooperation between the government, transit operators, and financial partners. Mastercard emphasized that commuters will benefit from the system’s built-in security features, which help guard against skimming and fraud.
With over 13 million residents relying heavily on public transport, the adoption of contactless payments on MRT-3 supports the Philippine government’s goals of improving urban mobility while advancing digital payment adoption.
