Free MRT-3 Ride Offered to Passengers Affected by Tap-Out Glitch

If you’ve been riding the MRT-3 recently and noticed something off with your fare, you are not alone. Some passengers were charged the full amount, even for short trips. This happened as the MRT-3 launched its cashless payment system, and now the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is stepping in with a solution.

Starting 4 August 2025, affected passengers can claim a free Single Journey Ticket (SJT) to make up for the glitch. If you were overcharged, your next MRT ride might just be on them.

Also read: Love Bus Returns and Dalian Trains Set to Ease MRT-3 Congestion

What went wrong during the MRT-3 cashless payment trial?

The MRT-3 recently began a pilot run of its cashless fare collection system. New turnstiles were installed that allow payments using bank cards, GCash QR codes, and Android phones with NFC features. It is a big move towards modernising public transport in Metro Manila, and many commuters were excited to try it out.

However, not everything went smoothly. Some commuters had trouble tapping out at the exit gates. When this happens, the system does not register the station you exited from. So it automatically charges you the maximum fare of ₱28, even if you only travelled a few stops.

Here is how you can claim your free MRT-3 ride

Image credit: PIA Metro Manila | official FB page

If this happened to you, the good news is you can get a non-expiring SJT to make up for the extra charge. You can use this free ticket any time you want.

To claim your free ticket, go to any MRT-3 ticket booth and show proof of the failed tap-out. That could be a screenshot of your e-wallet transaction, a bank notification, or any clear record of your payment. Once verified, staff will hand you your ticket, no need for long forms or complaints.

DOTr urges commuters to be patient

Transport Secretary Vince Dizon assured the public that the system is still being improved. More cashless turnstiles will be rolled out across all MRT-3 stations throughout August 2025. He also reminded commuters that a few bumps are expected at the start of a major digital shift like this. What matters is that they are fixing it.

What this means for daily commuters

Image credit: PIA Metro Manila | official FB page

Even with a few technical issues at the beginning, this move to contactless payment is a big step forward. The days of queuing for single-use tickets or searching for loose change could soon be behind us. With the new system, you can simply tap your card or phone, hop on the train, and go.

It also helps that the DOTr is acknowledging these early glitches and offering a way to make it right. Giving free ride vouchers is a small but meaningful way to show that they are listening to commuter feedback.

Also read: Student Commuting Just Got Cheaper with 50 Percent Fare Discount on LRT and MRT

Final reminder

If you have recently taken the MRT-3 and saw a ₱28 charge for what should have been a short ride, do not let it slide. Check your transaction records and visit the nearest ticket booth to claim your free ticket. You deserve to pay only what is fair, and now you have a chance to get it back.

Have you tried the MRT-3 cashless payment system? Share your experience and let us know how it went. Whether it was smooth or you hit a few snags, your feedback helps others know what to expect.