Mastercard Credit or Debit Card is now accepted on MRT Line 3

Metro Manila commuters now get a new seamless payment option for MRT Line 3 using a Mastercard debit or credit.

Mastercard sample

A much easier payment option

Starting today, July 25, commuters on Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) can pay fares by tapping their Mastercard credit, debit, or prepaid cards at contactless turnstiles. 

The refreshed system also supports compatible e-wallets on NFC-enabled Android devices, providing a faster and more convenient payment option.

Mastercard sample behind MRT

The move reflects the increasing adoption of open-loop payment systems in Southeast Asia, a collaboration between governments, transit operators, banks, and payment providers. 

Unlike closed-loop systems, open-loop payments allow riders to use existing bank cards or mobile wallets, reducing reliance on cash or dedicated transit cards.

With over 13.4 million residents dependent on public transport, the upgrade aims to ease congestion at fare gates. Mastercard users will also benefit from built-in security measures to prevent fraud.

This follows Mastercard's 2024 rollout of "Tap & Go" for Metro Manila transit, its first such initiative in the region. The company has deployed similar systems in cities like London, Sydney, and Singapore.

The shift to contactless payments aligns with the government's push for smarter urban mobility and broader digital payment adoption.

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Source: GMA News Online