Manila: The launch of the student-exclusive Beep cards in the National Capital Region (NCR) rail services has been postponed indefinitely due to system recalibration. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced that the recalibration is intended to ensure a 'smooth and hassle-free experience for students.'

According to Philippines News Agency, the DOTr stated that they need to recalibrate the system based on their initial assessment to ensure there will be no problems for students applying for the white Beep cards. Despite the delay, the DOTr assured that the 50-percent fare discount for students would continue through the use of single journey tickets.

The DOTr expressed apologies for the inconvenience and assured the public that they are working diligently to resolve the system issues within the month. Meanwhile, senior citizens and persons with disabilities can continue to use their existing white Beep cards to avail of their discounts.

Unlike single-use cards, white Beep cards are personally validated cashless cards that operate like other stored value Beep cards but come with an automatic 50 percent discount. The registration for the student white Beep cards was initially scheduled to commence on September 15 but has been postponed.