Government Launches 50-Percent Fare Discount for Students
In a significant move to ease education-related expenses, the Department of Education (DepEd) will assist the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in implementing a 50-percent fare discount for students on MRT and LRT lines. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive and aims to provide affordable transportation for learners across the country.
Running until 2028, the student fare discount program is designed to alleviate the financial burden of daily commutes for students. Officials reported that this measure supports education accessibility and equity by reducing travel costs.
Expanded Discounts Improve Commuter Experience
President Marcos announced during the 2025 State of the Nation Address that the previous 20-percent discount for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and students has been increased to 50 percent. “We continue to improve the service of the MRT and LRT,” he said in Filipino.
The program started in June and includes learners from kindergarten through graduate school, encompassing Alternative Learning System (ALS) and Special Education (SPED) students. Community members noted that the discount applies every time students ride the train, without any daily or monthly limits.
Education Secretary Highlights Benefits for Families
Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the program’s role in promoting access and equity in education. “Kapag nakatipid ang pamilya sa pamasahe, mas marami silang pwedeng ilaan sa mga libro at iba pang pang-edukasyon na gamit. Malaking ginhawa ito para sa mga estudyante,” he said.
He added that DepEd will actively inform schools and parents nationwide about this benefit to ensure that learners from Metro Manila to the remotest provinces feel the government’s support.
Transportation Department Expands Support Nationwide
The DOTr confirmed that all train lines in Metro Manila currently honor the 50-percent student fare discount. In addition, pilot programs for free rides using modern jeepneys and buses are underway in Cebu and Davao. More routes are set to launch soon to extend transport assistance beyond the capital.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon explained, “Hindi lang discount ang mahalaga. Sabi ng Presidente, hindi dapat maging pabigat ang karanasan ng mga estudyante. Kapag may student ID ka, pwede kang pumunta sa kahit anong istasyon at doon mismo ipi-print ang student beep card mo.” This process simplifies access, allowing students to easily avail of the discount without the hassle of purchasing single-journey tickets.
How Students Can Avail the Discount
To enjoy the 50-percent fare discount, students need only present a valid school ID or enrollment form. Starting this September, special white Beep cards will be available at train stations. These cards automatically apply the discount, streamlining daily commutes for learners.
Officials reported that student ridership is monitored through discounted ticket data. A dedicated commuter hotline and official social media channels are available to address any complaints if eligible students are denied the discount.
Collaboration to Promote Awareness and Accessibility
DepEd and DOTr will coordinate to harmonize guidelines and boost public awareness about the student fare discount program. This partnership aims to ensure maximum benefit and reach for Filipino learners nationwide.
“Ito ay isang konkretong hakbang upang mabawasan ang pasanin ng edukasyon para sa mga pamilyang Pilipino,” Angara said. “Kapag naging mas madali at mas mura ang pagpasok sa paaralan, mas makakapagtuon ang mga bata sa kanilang pag-aaral,” he added in Filipino.
For more news and updates on student fare discount, visit Filipinokami.com.
