PR
SANTOLAN, Pasig – A contactless and simplified loading transaction awaits beep™ cardholders starting Monday, October 19, 2020 as AF Payments Inc (the operator of beep™ card) has installed new devices called beep™ e-load stations, or Stored Value Updaters, at all LRT-2 stations.
Using digital wallets and banking apps, cardholders may reload beep™ cards prior to their commute. After successfully purchasing load, cardholders will just head over to these e-load stations to update the card for an easy and contactless transaction, skipping long lines from Ticket Vending Machines and avoiding the need for cash handling.
“Apart from the strict implementation of safety measures to beat COVID-19, this project initiated by LRTA and AF Payments Inc. aims to provide safer and seamless ticket transaction to the commuting public,” LRTA Administrator Reynaldo Berroya said.
He added that this is in accordance with the directive of the Department of Transportation to provide cashless transactions in public transportation systems.
AFPI installed one (1) beep™ e-load station at low foot traffic stations and two (2) for busy stations like Araneta Center-Cubao and Recto stations.
Last July 2020, LRT-2 closed its Passengers Assistance Office (PAO) for ticket purchasing and loading as it promotes contactless transactions as part of the “new normal”. Selling/loading of tickets has been made solely through the Ticket Vending Machines (TVM) to protect passengers and station personnel from the threat of COVID-19. The PAO however remained open to handle operations-related inquiries and ticket problems, and to issue concessionary cards to senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
“Our passengers have already adjusted to the new normal. This new method of loading is easy, safe and convenient especially to those already accustomed to online transactions. By simply texting and tapping, passengers may easily use the Stored Value Updater machines,” Berroya added.
Currently, over-the-air (OTA) loading is available for users of BPI mobile app, Paymaya, EON by Unionbank, Akulaku, JustPay.to/beep, and Load to beep™ (SMS).
Banners and related information collaterals on the use of the beep™ e-load station were already posted and disseminated. Additional information is also available on beep™ card’s official Facebook page.
beep™ card is a four-year valid reloadable stored value card that can be used for fare payments in MRT and LRT and at various bus lines, among others.
For more details, contact beep™ Customer Service Hotline through (02) 8737-9600.
INCREASE IN TRAIN CAPACITY
Meanwhile, LRT -2 will gradually increase train capacity starting today, Monday, October 19.
Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) Administrator Reynaldo Berroya said the increase in passenger capacity will ensure a faster and more convenient journey for commuters now that the entry of passengers will be boosted.
“As Metro Manila and its adjacent areas slowly re-open for businesses, we will comply with the directive to gradually increase train capacity. We will make sure to maintain an acceptable extent of physical distancing, and enforce the 7 public transport commandments inside the trains, considering that the safety of our passengers remains our top priority,” Administrator Berroya stressed.
He also appeals to LRT-2 commuters to stay at the safe distance markings provided inside the trains and stations.
