IN a bid to make commuting more convenient and seamless, LRT-1 private operator Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC), in partnership with AF Payments Inc. (AFPI), announced recently the pilot implementation of LRT-1 merchants as new channels for beep payment and loading services.

Under this project, LRT-1 merchants will have a portable stand-alone payment and loading device that allows them to process loading of beep cards and payment transactions without the need for any integration with a point of sale or any external processing system.

“At LRMC, we believe that safety and convenience go hand in hand. Contactless transactions have become part of the new normal for a safer and more convenient travel experience,” said LRMC Corporate Communications and Customer Relations Head Jacqueline Gorospe.

The partnership promotes faster payment transactions, reduces the need for coins and loose change, promotes accurate and transparent reporting of transactions, and enables handling of less cash for hygienic purposes.

The initiative kicked off with Master Siomai as the launch merchant partner with stalls at the following LRT-1 stations: Baclaran, EDSA and Balintawak. LRT-1 passengers now have more uses for their beep cards and can already use them when buying from Master Siomai.

For more information, follow LRMC on Facebook at facebook.com/officialLRT1, Twitter at @officialLRT1, or download the ikotMNL mobile app for free on Google Play and App Store.