LRT to adopt swipe cards Sunday

The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) said yesterday that it would formally start the use of magnetic swipe cards on Sunday, giving LRT commuters barely three days to dispose of their tokens.

"We advise the public to use their tokens before we implement our new fare system. We can’t possibly change their tokens into cash," said LRTA administrator Teodoro Cruz.

LRTA will kick-off on Saturday the "Automated Fare Collection System" (AFCS) that will replace the 16-year-old token-based fare system.

Cruz has assured that there would no fare adjustment despite the new scheme.

"The new and modern fare collection system will enable LRT Line to keep pace with current technological trends. It is in line with LRTA’s commitment to modernize and upgrade our service," he added.

Under AFCS, the fare for the entire stretch will remain at P12 and P2 for the last three stations at both ends of the LRT.

LRTA will come up with stored value tickets worth P120 which are intended for multiple entry. These will be valid for six months from the date of purchase.

According to Rod Bulario, LRTA’s acting operations chief, they expect AFCS to help minimize incidence of fraud at the LRT.

There were reports that tokens were being smuggled out of LRT in the past. This prompted the LRT management to prohibit the unauthorized sale of tokens in its 18 stations.

Bulario added that swipe cards would be programmed through computers so scalpers would be not able to lay their hands on cards.

"AFCS will minimize congestion at the LRT stations, especially during peak hours because we’ll put up improvised ticket booths. It will also provide us with a more reliable operating statistics," he said.