No More Long Queues: You Can Soon Use GCash and Cards to Pay for Train Rides in the Philippines

Ever been stuck in a long line just to reload your beep card or scrambling to find coins before hopping on the train? We get it. Commuting can be stressful enough without having to deal with outdated payment systems. But here’s some good news that’s about to make your daily rides easier. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is rolling out contactless payments for trains. This means you will soon be able to pay using GCash, debit cards, credit cards, and even QR codes.

Also read: Train Etiquette 101: How We Can Learn a Thing or Two from the Japanese

Commuting is getting an upgrade with cashless payments

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The new system will let you breeze through stations using your smartphone or card. It is set to launch on the MRT-3, LRT-1, and LRT-2, with more modes of transport like buses and modern jeepneys to follow. This update is part of the government's Automated Fare Collection System, a nationwide push to modernise transport services and improve the commuter experience.

With this shift to cashless options, you can look forward to fewer queues, less hassle, and a more convenient way to get around the city.

Tap, scan, and go with GCash, bank cards, or QR codes

Imagecredit: Alberto Alcain, Presidential Communications Office |Wikimedia commons

Soon, your morning commute could be as easy as tapping your debit card or scanning your GCash app. The system will accept EMV-compliant cards, which most local banks already issue. You can also pay through QR codes using apps like GCash or Maya. If you are into tech, the gates will also support Near Field Communication or NFC. That means your smartwatch or smartphone might be all you need to enter the train station.

Whether you are used to contactless payments or trying them for the first time, this upgrade is designed to work with tools you already use every day.

Pilot testing has already started

The transition to cashless commuting is already in motion. The DOTr has partnered with Land Bank of the Philippines and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to begin testing the new system. Pilot testing kicked off in May 2025 at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange or PITX. So far, the tests are running smoothly, and the response from commuters has been positive.

This trial run is helping the government fine-tune the system and prepare for its full implementation. The official rollout for trains is expected to happen by July 2025.

Why this matters for travellers and daily commuters

Image credit: Public-Private Partnership Center |Wikimedia commons

For local commuters, this means faster entry at stations and less stress during busy hours. No more hunting for coins or worrying about whether your beep card has enough load. Just tap and ride. For tourists, especially those using e-wallets, it offers a simple and familiar way to pay without needing a separate fare card.

This change also supports a more hygienic and secure travel experience. No more handling cash or passing it around. Plus, operators benefit from lower maintenance costs and fewer technical issues related to fare cards.

When to expect the full rollout

While there is no exact date yet, the DOTr has confirmed that the system will launch officially in July 2025. With pilot tests underway, it is only a matter of time before this modern payment method becomes the norm for public transport across Metro Manila.

So, the next time you are on your way to work or planning your next city adventure, just remember that soon, all you will need is your phone or card to hop on a train.

Quick recap of what’s coming:

You will soon be able to pay for MRT and LRT rides using GCash, debit, and credit cards

QR code scanning and NFC technology will also be accepted

Pilot testing began at PITX in May 2025

The full launch is expected by July 2025