Commuting in Metro Manila is getting a major digital upgrade. Following the successful rollout of open-loop, contactless payments in the MRT-3 earlier this year, Visa is now preparing local banks for the next phase expanding the same seamless system to LRT-1 and LRT-2.
In partnership with Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), Visa recently hosted an urban mobility workshop aimed at helping Philippine banks integrate secure, real-time digital payments into the country’s growing smart transit network.
From Swipe to Tap: The Future of Filipino Commuting
Held in October 2025, the Visa-RCBC forum brought together industry leaders and financial institutions to discuss the next steps for implementing automated fare collection systems in other train lines. The goal? To make every train, bus, or jeepney ride as easy as tapping your card or smartphone.
With the LRT-1 and LRT-2 serving more than 500,000 riders daily, the expansion of contactless payments is set to revolutionize how Filipinos move around the metro. This marks Visa’s fourth transit project in the Philippines, following successful integrations with the MRT-3 and bus systems in Cebu, Mandaue, and Bacolod.
“We fully support the government’s vision of transforming everyday commuting experiences for the public,” said Mylene Bico, Chief Commercial Officer of RCBC Credit Cards. “We hope to launch contactless payment systems in LRT-1 and LRT-2 within the year.”
Digital Payments That Move People and Progress
Visa’s open-loop system allows riders to simply tap a Visa card or mobile wallet at turnstiles — no need to reload stored-value cards or wait in long lines. Beyond convenience, it’s part of a bigger push for financial inclusion and smart urban mobility.
According to the Visa Economic Empowerment Institute, contactless fare systems can boost ridership by up to 10%. Across Asia-Pacific, 94% of commuters prefer transport systems that accept digital payments, while 45% say they’d travel more often if it were easier to pay.
“Enabling commuters to use their cards and smartphones to pay is a step toward broadening digital and financial inclusion,” shared Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Philippines Country Manager. “When we remove barriers to digital systems, we make transport more efficient and help uplift the economy.”
Towards a Smarter, More Connected Philippines
With over 870 tap-to-ride projects worldwide, Visa is bringing global best practices to local shores helping transform the Philippines into a hub for smart, sustainable transport infrastructure.
This shift isn’t just about convenience; it’s about improving productivity, reducing congestion, and promoting inclusive economic growth. For Filipino commuters, the daily grind might soon feel a little smoother one tap at a time.