Mastercard and AF Payments Inc. (AFPI) teamed up to bring contactless payments to Bonifacio Global City (BGC) buses, making commuting faster and more convenient for Filipinos.
The launch in Taguig is the first phase of a pilot program under the strategic partnership between Mastercard and AFPI, the company behind beep.
Announced in February this year, future phases of the program will introduce contactless payments across other transit systems including EDSA buses and Metro Rail Transit Line 3.
The initiative also supports the Philippine government’s ambition to accelerate digital payments adoption in the country across various sectors such as transport.
It reaffirms Mastercard’s commitment to advancing smart and inclusive mobility in the Philippines. By eliminating the need to carry cash or multiple transit tickets, it will simplify and enhance the commuting experience for Filipinos.
With Metro Manila home to around 14 million residents, many of whom rely heavily on public transport, the introduction of contactless payments in the city’s public transport system will help drive the adoption of digital payments among Filipinos for everyday transactions.
Commuters paying with their Mastercard cards will also benefit from cybersecurity features that protect against card skimming and payment fraud.
Mastercard’s extensive range of cybersecurity and intelligence systems draw on identity verification data, machine learning, behavioral analytics and artificial intelligence to help organizations of all sizes enhance security standards.
“We are excited to partner with Mastercard to launch the first phase of this important partnership. As an emerging and dynamic hub for global companies and innovative startups, Bonifacio Global City is the ideal location to kick off this rollout, which will not only improve transit options for local commuters, but also raise the efficiency and accessibility of public transport operations in line with global standards,” said JJ Moreno, president and chief executive of AF Payments.
Mastercard country manager for the Philippines Simon Calasanz said the pilot program exemplifies Mastercard’s commitment to delivering innovative transit solutions for Metro Manila, while also furthering the adoption of digital payments in the Philippines.
“Mastercard looks forward to working with beep to bring greater convenience to local residents by introducing new payment options, which in turn will help reduce queues and contribute to an overall more rewarding transit experience,” Calasanz said.
Mastercard enabled open loop transit systems in several major cities around the world such as London, Sydney, and Singapore, using its proven expertise to enhance the commuter experience and improve public transportation infrastructure and operations. It is the first international payment network to enable ‘Tap & Go’ on public transport in Metro Manila.
