Expanded 50-Percent Train Fare Discount Benefits Seniors and PWDs
Senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs) can now enjoy the 50-percent train fare discount across Metro Manila’s three major rail lines. This expanded 50-percent train fare discount aims to ease the financial load on vulnerable commuters.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. spearheaded the rollout of this expanded discount for the Light Rail Transit-Line 1 (LRT-1), Light Rail Transit-Line 2 (LRT-2), and Metro Rail Transit-Line 3 (MRT-3). The initiative follows the earlier launch of the same discount for students in June, reflecting the President’s commitment to support commuters with limited income.
Program Details and Benefits
The government has increased the current mandated fare discount from 20 percent to 50 percent for senior citizens and PWDs. “Our students, persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens truly need our help because their incomes are very limited. That’s why we thought of this program as something we can do to support our commuters who are PWDs and senior citizens,” President Marcos said during the event at the MRT-3 Santolan-Annapolis southbound station.
This additional discount is expected to aid about 13 million senior citizens and 7 million PWDs annually, significantly reducing their daily commuting expenses.
How to Avail the 50-Percent Train Fare Discount
Like the student discount, seniors and PWDs can use the 50-percent discount every day, including weekends and holidays, until 2028. To avail, they simply need to present their senior citizen ID or PWD ID at ticket counters.
The discount applies automatically when using registered white Beep cards for seniors and PWDs. Those who have yet to register can still enjoy the discount by purchasing single journey tickets.
Transport Secretary Vince Dizon emphasized the government’s continuous efforts to ease commuting burdens for priority sectors. “The President’s directive is to always prioritize the welfare of seniors and PWDs. This 50-percent discount on train fares is a small step to make public transportation more affordable for our priority sectors,” he said.
Inspiration and Commitment to Commuters
President Marcos shared in his “BBM Podcast” that he drew inspiration from other countries offering generous transportation benefits to vulnerable groups. “Everywhere I go, seniors and students get large discounts—up to 50 percent,” he noted. He added, “Students usually don’t have much money. And the elderly? They’ve already served the country. Why are we still making them pay so much? They deserve a little benefit.”
Addressing Public Concerns on Train Services
The expanded discount comes amid ongoing public concerns about the quality of rail services, particularly the MRT-3, which is the busiest line in Metro Manila. Commuters have long complained about overcrowding, delays, and extreme heat.
President Marcos acknowledged these issues, recalling his own experience riding the MRT. “I know how hot and crowded it can get,” he said. “Sometimes, you get in and you can’t even move your arm.”
To improve the commuting experience, the administration has already implemented measures such as increasing train cars, reducing waiting times, eliminating redundant security checks, and expanding cashless payment options.
For more news and updates on 50-percent train fare discount, visit Filipinokami.com.
