Contactless fare system expected to increase MRT-3 ridership by 10%, boosting urban mobility, tourism, and digital inclusion
Visa, a global leader in digital payments, is taking another bold step toward inclusive economic growth in the Philippines by launching a modern contactless payment system on Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3). In collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and other key partners, the initiative is set to benefit over 350,000 daily commuters, ushering in a new era of convenience, safety, and efficiency for public transport users.
This is Visa’s third major transit project in the country, following successful rollouts in Cebu, Mandaue, and Bacolod.
Fast, Secure, and Seamless Commuting for All
With contactless infrastructure now installed across all 13 MRT-3 stations, passengers can simply tap their Visa cards, smartphones, or NFC-enabled devices to ride—no need for cash or physical tickets. According to the Visa Economic Empowerment Institute, open-loop, contactless systems can increase public transport ridership by up to 10%, contributing to more dynamic urban centers and economic uplift.
“Modern, seamless payment systems are essential for vibrant urban economies. Upgrading fare collection not only enhances the commuter experience but also boosts productivity by making Metro Manila more connected and efficient,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Visa’s Country Manager for the Philippines.
Aligning Metro Manila with World-Class Cities
The new system aligns Metro Manila’s urban transport with top-tier global cities like Tokyo, Singapore, and Bangkok. Findings from the Visa Global Urban Mobility Survey show:
- 96% of commuters expect contactless transit payment options
- 58% want a single payment method across all modes of transport
Visa’s interoperable, digital solution meets these expectations, enabling hassle-free travel for both locals and visitors.
Driving Financial and Digital Inclusion
Beyond convenience, this upgrade plays a crucial role in bridging the financial divide. By allowing unbanked and underbanked Filipinos to access digital services through familiar tools like cards and smartphones, Visa is promoting greater financial inclusion.
“Digitization in public transport doesn’t just make commuting easier—it empowers people. It gives more Filipinos access to the digital economy and paves the way for long-term financial inclusion,” Navarro added.
Enhancing the Tourist Experience
The contactless system also aims to elevate the travel experience for international and domestic tourists. According to the Visa 2023 Global Travel Intentions Study, while 97% of Asia Pacific travelers carry cards, 44% of visitors to the Philippines have faced payment challenges due to limited card acceptance.
With the MRT-3 now offering card-based fare collection, the Philippines is positioning itself as a modern, tourist-friendly destination—a crucial step in boosting tourism receipts and visitor satisfaction.
“Tourism thrives on convenience. Upgrading our transit systems encourages visitors to explore more, spend more, and spread the word about the Philippines as a must-visit destination,” said Navarro.
From Metro Manila to the Rest of the Philippines
Visa’s MRT-3 project builds on earlier initiatives in Cebu, Mandaue, and Bacolod, where over 1.4 million residents and tourists benefit from tap-to-pay systems on modern jeepneys. These efforts reflect Visa’s commitment to expanding its smart mobility solutions nationwide.
With over 870 tap-to-ride transit projects worldwide, Visa continues to drive digital transformation in public transportation—helping the Philippines move toward a more inclusive, sustainable, and globally competitive future.