The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is seeking government approval for a ₱9.37-billion project that would let Filipino commuters pay for buses, jeepneys, and trains through a single nationwide fare system, using digital wallets, QR codes, and bank cards.
The Philippine Automated Fare Collection System (PAFCS) is being developed as a public-private partnership (PPP). The PPP Center said the project is under evaluation by a government approving body, which will decide whether the DOTr can proceed to bidding.
What commuters can expect
If approved and built, passengers would no longer need a separate payment method for each mode of transport. The system would accept digital wallets, QR codes, debit and credit cards, and other devices that support near-field communication (NFC).
“[This] will enable commuters to use a single, seamless payment option across different modes of transport,” the DOTr said.
The PPP Center said the project includes a Central Transit Acquirer System (CTAS), which would process payments across the country’s transport network.
The DOTr expects shorter lines at terminals and easier transfers between transport modes. It also expects lower travel costs, since the system would allow a single boarding fee for trips that involve more than one mode.
Operators and drivers would get clearer daily revenue accounting. The system would also collect more mobility data for use in planning studies.
How the project is structured
The PAFCS will follow a hybrid PPP model. The winning bidder will build and operate the system, then turn management over to the DOTr when the concession period ends.
In May, the DOTr held a market sounding activity with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), attended by more than 50 international and domestic companies. Transportation Undersecretary Timothy John Batan said the turnout reflects strong investor interest and suggested that many firms may compete once bidding opens.
Where things stand for Filipino commuters
Some of this is already in use. Commuters can pay with different payment methods on the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2). The DOTr also plans to introduce an automated fare system across the entire EDSA Busway before the end of the year.
No bidding schedule has been announced, and the PAFCS cannot proceed to bidding until the approving body completes its evaluation.
