Mastercard contactless payments now live on LRT-2 in Metro Manila

After VISA, Mastercard now expands contactless transit payments to LRT-2.

File photo: Atome Mastercard

Mastercard Brings Contactless Fare Payments to LRT-2 in Metro Manila

Commuters on Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2) can now pay their fares using a Mastercard credit, debit, or prepaid card, or a mobile wallet linked to an eligible Mastercard card. The contactless option allows passengers to proceed directly to designated Fast Lanes without needing to purchase or reload a fare ticket, streamlining the boarding process.

The addition expands the range of cashless payment methods already available to LRT-2 riders, which include mobile NFC payments, credit, debit, and prepaid cards, and GCash Commute QR. For Mastercard cardholders, the new capability means they can use cards and mobile wallets they already carry to pass through station entry points more efficiently, while benefiting from the security features built into contactless payments.

The rollout is the latest step in the broader expansion of contactless transit payments across Metro Manila, reflecting ongoing collaboration among transit authorities, financial institutions, and payment technology providers to modernize fare collection, strengthen the safety and security of transit payments, and improve accessibility to public transportation.

Public transportation is part of everyday life for millions of Filipinos, and paying for a ride should be just as effortless. With Mastercard contactless payments now available on LRT-2, we're making everyday travel more seamless and secure, helping commuters save time and move through their journeys with greater confidence," said Jason Crasto, Mastercard's Country Manager for the Philippines.

The contactless payment feature also supports compatible issuer mobile wallets on NFC-enabled Android devices, giving commuters additional ways to pay. Each transaction is protected by Mastercard's security features, which are designed to safeguard cardholders while ensuring a fast and reliable payment experience.

Mastercard has supported the rollout of open-loop transit payments in cities worldwide, enabling commuters to pay directly with their existing bank cards or eligible mobile devices rather than purchasing separate transit tickets. In the Philippines, the company said it continues to work with industry partners to expand access to secure, convenient, and interoperable transit payment options that simplify everyday commutes.

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