For daily commuters, every minute counts. Mornings are a race against time—beating the rush, catching the train, and getting to work without unnecessary delays. That’s why realizing your stored value card is low on balance right when you’re already in line feels like the worst possible timing.
Suddenly, you’re scrambling for a top-up machine, queuing at the ticket booth, or hoping the reloading kiosk doesn’t malfunction during peak hour. What should be a routine commute turns into avoidable stress.
Now, commuters riding the MRT-3 have a more convenient alternative: paying directly with GCash.
One Less Thing to Worry About
With GCash, your phone or your GCash Visa Card can serve as your train ticket. No more second-guessing your balance while the line grows behind you. No more separate top-up stops interrupting your schedule.
Even when you do need to cash in, it’s straightforward:
- Free cash-in machines are available across all MRT-3 stations.
- You can transfer funds online from your linked bank accounts.
MRT-3 stations offer free Wi-Fi, so you can complete transactions on the spot even without mobile data.
Instead of disrupting your commute, topping up can now happen seamlessly along the way.
Three Easy Ways to Pay for Your MRT-3 Ride
1. Tap to Pay Using Your NFC-Enabled Android Phone
If you’re using an NFC-enabled Android device, your phone becomes your entry and exit pass.
One-time activation steps:
- Open your phone’s Settings.
- Turn on NFC.
- Log in to the GCash app.
- Select Tap to Pay and agree to the Terms & Conditions.
Once activated:
- Log in to your GCash app.
- Tap your phone at the turnstile upon entry.
- Tap again upon exit for automatic fare deduction.
No station input required. Just tap and go.
2. Scan Your GCash Commute QR
No NFC? No problem.
You can generate a Commute QR code inside the GCash app and use it as your digital ticket.
Here’s how:
- Tap Commute in the GCash app.
- Select Generate QR (you may download or screenshot it).
- Scan the QR at the turnstile upon entry.
- Upon exit, scan the same QR again, and the exact fare will be automatically deducted.
It’s a fully cashless option no physical card needed.
3. Tap Your GCash Visa Card
If your signal is spotty, your battery is low, or you simply prefer using a physical card, you can tap your GCash Visa Card at the turnstile—just like a standard stored value card.
The card links directly to your GCash wallet and can also be used for:
- Online and in-store purchases
- ATM withdrawals (as low as P10 per withdrawal)
To get one:
- Tap Cards in the GCash app.
- Select Order a Card and pay P250 (delivery within 7–10 days), or choose Link my Card if you already have one.
- Enter the required OTP and card details to complete setup.
All transactions are reflected in your app’s Transaction History for easy tracking.
Convenience Is More Than a Luxury
In a world where schedules are tight and stress is constant, small efficiencies make a real difference. Skipping a top-up line. Avoiding machine errors. Eliminating guesswork around balance.
These aren’t just minor improvements—they shape how your entire day unfolds.
With its growing adoption among commuters, GCash has become a trusted payment option at MRT-3. Whether you tap, scan, or use your card, you’re choosing a faster, more flexible way to move through your day.
Ready to upgrade your commute? Download the GCash app via the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery and power up your daily ride.

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