AF Payments Inc. now implements the first QR code transport ticketing system in the Philippines.

Metro Manila-based BGC Bus and Cebu-based Topline Express Ferries will now be shifting to using QR code technology for payment and passenger ticketing. A QR code (Quick Response Code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores information that can be read rapidly by a QR reader that allows quick passenger validation and entry into the paid or boarding areas.

“We are proud to say that our technology is developed in the Philippines, by Filipinos, for Filipinos,” said Rene Almendras, president of AF Payments Inc. “To accelerate the growth of QR ticketing and payments in the country, we are opening our QR ticketing ecosystem to other market players. We invite transport operators, payments companies and developers to work with us in widening the reach of QR ticketing. For more information on how you can participate in this initiative, visit our beep business website at business.beeptopay.com,”

Have you read “beep reloading now available via BPI Online and BPI Mobile App”?

How it works

In addition to using beep™ card and beep™-powered Topline Express Ferries cards, commuters now have the option to buy QR code-based tickets that the commuter will scan before boarding the bus or ferry. The new system will replace manually validated paper ticketing to ensure quicker validation and hassle-free commuter experience.

AF Payments is bringing in the convenience of mobile payments. In partnership with GCash, passengers of BGC Bus & Topline Express Ferries can now pay their fare using the GCash mobile app.

How to Pay using GCash: At the ticket counter, open the GCash app on your smartphone. Choose Pay QR, generate your own QR code, and scan the QR code on the beep QR Reader. Your QR ticket will automatically print and the fare will be deducted from your GCash account.

“We are committed to improving the payment experience of BGC bus riders. Our partnership with AF Payments Inc. and BGC Bus allows us to use our QR code to facilitate a convenient way of paying. We plan to replicate this model with other transport service providers,” said Anthony Thomas, CEO of Mynt.

With 6.5 million beep™ cards in the market and over 20 million GCash account holders nationwide, this initiative is expected to benefit a sizable portion of e-wallet customers in the Philippines. Passengers can now enjoy more options to pay and get tickets for their daily commute.

AF Payments Inc. is planning to roll out QR ticketing to other partner buses in Metro Manila in the coming months. QR tickets are easy to use and reduce implementation and integration costs for public transport operators. The rich data conveyed through QR code tickets helps operators to accurately and timely record transactions. With its speed and ease of use, commuters also stand to benefit from this technology.