Bus firm implements automated fare collection

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD City – Vallacar Transit Inc. (VTI) Media Liaison Officer Jade Seballos said Monday that they will launch the Automated Fare Collection System (AFCS) at Ceres Liner North Terminal, Brgy. Bata, Bacolod City on June 14, 2021.

VTI operates the Ceres Bus Liner.

The pilot route for the AFCS will be Bacolod to Victorias.

“The collection system is a cashless, contactless, and efficient way of collecting fares from the passengers,” Seballos said.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade, DOTr Assistant Secretary Mark Steven Pastor, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chairman Martin Delgra and LTFRB-6 Regional Director Richard Osmena will grace the launching.

According to the DOTr, Automated Fare Collection System aims to improve urban public transportation by providing payment options to the riding public. This program is created to ensure interoperability and mutual trust among the passengers and the transportation companies.

DOTr added that this will be a more secure payment for the passengers, as they do not have to carry cash to pay for their fares, especially during the early mornings where spare change may be difficult to come by. They just need to tap theirs cards and enjoy the ride.

VTI President and CEO Leo Rey Yanson emphasized the need for the continuous improvement of the company in terms of convenient, quality, and affordable service to the riding public as embodied in the legacy of his late father and YGBC founder, Ricardo Yanson Sr.

“We adhere to the modernization program of the transport sector under the leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte. The pandemic cannot stop us from delivering good service to our stakeholders,” Yanson said.

Yanson also said that tap cards will be distributed free of charge to the riding public. The load will be paid by the commuters at the terminal booth.

“In the future, we are giving rebates to the passengers or exploring the possibility of loyalty award points to maximize the riding experience of our passengers,” he added.