Manila: Passengers of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) will soon benefit from the introduction of credit and debit card payments for fares, as well as the removal of X-ray machines, as part of the Department of Transportation's (DOTr) initiatives to reduce queuing at MRT-3 stations.

According to Philippines News Agency, during a press conference at Malaca±ang, DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon revealed plans to install turnstiles that accept cashless payment options, such as debit and credit cards, at MRT-3 stations by July. GCash is already an accepted cashless payment option at the MRT-3. Dizon highlighted that tap card payments are already implemented in public transport facilities in other countries and are now being adapted in the Philippines.

In addition, the removal of X-ray machines is being piloted at select MRT-3 stations, including North Avenue and Taft Avenue, and also at the Taft Avenue Station of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) and the Recto Station of the LRT-2. The assessment of this initiative will be ongoing over the coming weeks to ensure safety and efficiency.

Dizon emphasized that the removal of X-ray machines is coordinated with the Office of Transport Security, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to maintain passenger safety. Preparations include deploying K9 sniffing dogs from the PCG K9 academy in Clark, Pampanga, which have recently completed their training.

Furthermore, Dizon has addressed minor issues such as visual cues and signage at MRT-3 stations. He ordered the removal of the Shaw Boulevard station sign, which had been criticized by commuters, replacing it with signage that meets global standards.