Bus firm launches ‘cashless’ fare scheme

By Dolly Yasa 

BACOLOD City – Vallacar Transit Inc., operator of Ceres Bus Liner, launched Monday its first Automated Fare Collection System (AFCS) at the Ceres Liner North Terminal in Brgy. Bata here.

VTI President Leo Rey Yanson said the collection system is a cashless, contactless, and efficient way of collecting fares from the passengers using fare cards that are free.

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chairman Martin Delgra, who was the guest of honor in lieu of Department of Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, said the AFCS is the first in Western Visayas.

According to the DOTr, the 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 in early mornings where spare change may be difficult to come by. Passengers only need to tap their 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 company 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 in 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.