The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has started allowing cashless payments on the EDSA Busway using GCash to make commuting faster and more convenient.
The move follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to improve daily travel and encourage more people to use public transport.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said GCash is an added payment option for passengers, not a replacement for cash. He added that there will be no extra fees when using GCash, and students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities will continue to receive a 20 percent fare discount.
Lopez said the initiative aims to improve not only transport facilities and vehicles but also the overall commuter experience.
To pay, passengers need to open the GCash app, select “scan to pay,” scan the QR code on the SoundPay device carried by the bus conductor, enter the fare, and confirm payment.
GCash for Business Head Jong Layug said the system is secure and cannot be hacked, citing strong security measures. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor Mamerto Tangonan also said the system ensures fast and exact payments, with fares credited directly to operators
