The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has announced that 300,000 additional regular beep cards will be available starting next week to address the ongoing shortage affecting train commuters in Metro Manila. Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon assured the public that the government is taking firm action to resolve the issue, in line with President Marcos’ directive to ensure smooth and efficient train operations across MRT-3, LRT-1, and LRT-2.
“By next week, we will no longer have a shortage of beep cards. Beep Card will be completing a delivery of 300,000 additional cards across MRT-3, LRT-1, and LRT-2. That’s the shortage we have calculated,” Secretary Dizon said in a statement, emphasizing that the issue has been properly assessed and that the new stock will resolve the problem.
He also gave a stern warning to those allegedly involved in hoarding and reselling beep cards at excessive prices.
“There are syndicates buying up beep cards at the stations. We are coordinating with the PNP (Philippine National Police) and SAICT (Special Action and Intelligence Committee on Transportation). We will monitor every station to catch these individuals. We will have them arrested and jailed,” Dizon firmly stated.
In addition, the DOTr is now coordinating with online selling platforms to take down illegal sellers offering beep cards online. This move aims to further prevent the exploitation of passengers who are left with no choice but to buy cards at inflated prices due to the shortage.
The 300,000 incoming beep cards are expected to stabilize the supply across all major train lines and significantly reduce commuter inconvenience. With stricter enforcement measures and inter-agency coordination, the DOTr is determined to put an end to illegal profiteering and restore order in the distribution of train fare cards.— Cali Demi
