Beep™ cards have revolutionized the way people make payments and navigate transportation systems in various urban environments. Utilizing advanced technologies such as MIFARE DESFire EV2 and NFC, these smart cards offer commuters a contactless, convenient, and efficient means of paying for fares and accessing public transportation services. With a simple tap on designated card readers, commuters can seamlessly board buses, trains, and other modes of transportation without the hassle of carrying cash or purchasing physical tickets.
Moreover, beep™ cards extend beyond transportation, serving as versatile payment solutions for shopping and accessing rewards programs. By integrating beep™ card functionality with retail terminals and loyalty programs, users can make purchases and earn rewards points with ease. This multi-functional approach enhances the utility of beep™ cards, providing commuters with a seamless and rewarding experience both in transit and during their everyday activities.
Beep™ cards are contactless smart cards utilized for fare payments in public transportation systems and payment solutions for shopping and accessing rewards programs. They originally started as stored value tickets used in Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), before it evolved into contactless smart cards that leverage advanced technologies. The combination of MIFARE DESFire EV2 and NFC technology offers a robust and secure solution for Beep cards. MIFARE DESFire EV2 provides advanced encryption standards, ensuring the integrity and security of card transactions.
The NFC technology facilitates seamless communication between the card and reader devices, enabling quick and hassle-free fare payments in public transit systems. Together, they enhance user experience by providing fast and reliable contactless transactions, reducing waiting times at ticket gates. Additionally, the integration of MIFARE DESFire EV2 with NFC technology ensures compatibility with existing infrastructure and standards, making it a versatile and widely adopted solution for beep™ cards.
Beep™ cards contain a microchip that houses essential information such as the cardholder’s balance, fare deductions, and other relevant data. When a commuter taps their beep™ cards on the card reader installed at entry or exit points in transportation hubs, the reader wirelessly communicates with the microchip, verifying the card’s validity and deducting the appropriate fare amount from the cardholder’s balance stored on the microchip. This process occurs within milliseconds, enabling swift and seamless passage through fare gates or turnstiles. Additionally, beep™ cards can be reloaded with funds at designated top-up stations or online platforms, ensuring continuous usability for commuters.
How Does the Beep™ Card Work for Buses?
Step 1: Upon boarding the bus, locate the Beep™ Bus Validator positioned near the coach captain (bus driver) entrance.
Step 2: Tap your Beep™ card on the card reader of the Bus Validator, where the Beep icon sticker is located. Wait for the light to change from Amber to Green, accompanied by a beep™ sound, indicating a successful transaction.
Step 3: After the transaction, observe your card details, including the fare deducted and remaining balance, displayed on the screen. Remember not to tap again to prevent double deduction.
Note: There’s no need to tap out when exiting the bus.
How Does the Beep™ Card Work for LRT and MRT?
Step 1: Locate the beep™ card reader at the entry gate of the LRT or MRT station.
Step 2: Tap your beep™ card on the card reader to initiate the transaction.
Step 3: Wait for the reader to verify your card and deduct the appropriate fare amount from your balance.
Step 4: Upon successful verification, proceed through the turnstiles or entry gates to access the platform.
Step 5: When exiting the LRT or MRT station, tap your beep™ card on the exit gate to complete the transaction and deduct the fare for your journey.
Benefits of Beep™ Card
The advent of beep™ cards has eliminated a lot of inconvenient processes in transportation hubs and cashier counters of selected partner merchants nationwide. Having said that, owning one then translates to enjoying the following benefits:
Reduces operational costs (for transport service provider)
Leverage anonymous data collection
Allows data analysis for route optimization
Improve service delivery over time
Use Cases and Success Stories
The adoption of beep™ cards has led to significant improvements in public transportation systems worldwide. In cities like Manila, where beep™ cards were first introduced in the country, commuters have embraced the convenience and efficiency of cashless fare payments. Transit agencies have also implemented beep™ card systems to modernize fare collection processes and enhance commuter satisfaction.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite their numerous benefits, beep™ cards face challenges such as technological limitations, interoperability issues, and concerns regarding data privacy and security. Transit agencies must address these challenges through continuous innovation, collaboration with technology partners, and adherence to regulatory standards.
Looking ahead, the future of beep™ cards appears promising, with advancements in technology paving the way for enhanced features and capabilities. Integration with mobile payment platforms, expansion of contactless services, and integration with smart city initiatives are among the exciting developments on the horizon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For your reference, here are some common questions and answers related to how beep™ cards work:
1. How does beep™ improve my commuting experience?
Reduces time spent in queuing for tickets
Streamlines transfers between LRT1, LRT2, MRT3, and partner buses/modern PUJs
Safe transactions as beep™ is contactless
2. What’s the advantage of using a beep™ card over cash?
Hassle-free and convenient payment experience
No need to carry cash or fumble for coins
Ensures exact payment every time, avoiding being short-changed
Offers seamless travel with only one payment card
Helps manage budget by dedicating transport money solely for transportation
3. Where else can I use my beep™ card?
Accepted in LRT1, LRT2, MRT3, and growing number of P2P buses and PUVs nationwide
Can be used for fare payments in Cebu Ferries
Accepted at selected retail establishments such as Ministop and selected merchants at LRT-1 Stations
Video: LRTA Beep™ Card Demo
For a visual display and to help you learn how to use your beep™ card at the LRT stations, watch this video from SPLgum and check out this beep™ card demo at an actual LRTA station:
Summary
Beep™ cards represent a significant milestone in the evolution of public transportation systems, offering commuters a convenient, efficient, and cost-effective way to navigate urban environments. By leveraging advanced technologies such as MIFARE DESFire EV2 and NFC, beep™ cards continue to revolutionize fare collection processes and enhance the overall commuter experience. As cities embrace smart mobility solutions, beep™ cards are poised to play a central role in shaping the future of urban transportation.
Riding the Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2), otherwise known as the Megatren or the Purple Line, in Metro Manila requires going through the ticketing process using the ticket vending machines (TVMs) stationed at the stations. It might seem daunting at first since the tellers and ticket counters have been removed, but these machines are actually meant to streamline the ticketing process and offer convenience to commuters.
Buying tickets from TVMs in LRT-2 stations is a straightforward process that involves selecting the desired ticket type, choosing the destination from a clear display, and completing the payment transaction. This method offers efficiency and convenience to passengers, allowing them to quickly purchase tickets without the need for queuing at ticket counters. Additionally, it minimizes physical contact and promotes a more seamless travel experience for commuters. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of buying tickets at LRT-2 stations using the Ticket Vending Machine (TVM).
Installed at Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 2 stations, Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) are self-serving kiosks that dispense LRT-2 tickets, both Single Journey Tickets and Stored Value Cards. These machines represent a modernization initiative aimed at streamlining ticket purchases for commuters through automated processes. This transition also entails upgrading from the old magnetic stripe tickets to contactless smart cards equipped with a microchip. As one of the pioneers in adopting this technology nationwide, LRT-2 aims to minimize, if not eliminate, the reliance on manual transactions at ticket counters, thereby enhancing overall efficiency and convenience for passengers.
AF Payments Incorporated has upgraded and recalibrated the TVMs on the Purple Line to accept a variety of coins and bills, while also dispensing single journey and stored value tickets for commuters. This enhancement aims to provide passengers with efficient, secure, and hassle-free ticketing services. Additionally, the upgrade enables commuters to conveniently use newly minted coins for ticket purchases, enhancing their overall travel experience within the public transportation network.
Photo credit: Commuters of Metro Manila
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Tickets at LRT-2 Using the TVMs
In 2020, the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) discontinued ticket sales through station tellers, as directed by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), transitioning exclusively to Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs). Despite this shift, many individuals still find navigating these machines challenging. To address this, we’ve created a comprehensive guide to assist passengers in purchasing tickets at LRT-2 stations via TVMs.
Step 1. Go to the TVMs
Photo credit: Commuters of Metro Manila
Upon reaching the station, head to the area with the TVMs and wait for your turn. Make sure to prepare bills and coins and some spare for tour transactions. Some TVMs do not have available types of tickets so make sure to check first before queuing.
Step 2. Choose Your Ticket Type
Photo credit: Jelvin Base/Medium
When you approach the TVM, you’ll be presented with various options. If you don’t have a Beep card yet, opt for the “Single Journey Ticket.” As the name suggests, this is a one-time-use ticket that you’ll return at your destination. Alternatively, if you have a Beep card, you can use the TVM to load credit onto it by choosing the option for Stored Value Ticket.
Step 3. Select Your Destination
Photo credit: Jelvin Base/Medium
On the TVM screen, you’ll see a list of stations represented by blue dots. The yellow dot indicates your current station. Tap on the blue dot corresponding to your destination station. Once selected, the dot will change to red, confirming your choice. Finally, tap the “Confirm” button to proceed.
Step 4. Payment Process
Photo credit: Jelvin Base/Medium
The TVM will display the amount you need to pay for your ticket. Insert the required amount of money into the machine. Be prepared for the possibility that certain bill denominations may be rejected. It’s a good idea to have alternative bills or coins ready. Wait for the TVM to detect and read the bill you’ve inserted.
Step 5. Completion and Receipt
Photo credit: Jeff Man/Blogger
Once the payment process is complete, the TVM will dispense your ticket and any change due. If you’d like a receipt, simply click on the “Receipt” button. If not, click “OK” to finish the transaction.
Step 6. Language Options
The TVM offers both English and Tagalog language options for users’ convenience. While Tagalog is available for those who prefer it, the default language is English. It’s worth noting that English is widely understood and spoken by the majority of Filipinos, so you may find it easier to navigate the TVM in English.
Step 7. Tap Your Way in and Proceed to the Boarding Area
Once you have secured your ticket, you may now tap your card on the machines and then walk through the turnstile to the boarding area and wait for the next train.
By following these simple steps, you can easily purchase tickets at LRT-2 using the Ticket Vending Machine.
Fares
Depending on where you are going, the price of Single Journey Tickets range from P13 to P35. Stored Value Tickets, on the other hand, are reloadable cards sold for P30. It requires a minimum load of P14 and is good for up to four years of use.
For the specific fare information related to the different LRT-2 stations, you may check this fare matrix below:
Photo credit: LRTA
Video: How to Buy LRT-2 Tickets
Buying LRT-2 tickets from TVMs offers commuters a convenient and efficient way to purchase tickets. With a user-friendly interface, passengers can quickly select their desired ticket type, make payments, and receive their tickets without the need for manual transactions at ticket counters. This automated process helps streamline the ticketing experience and reduces waiting times for travelers. For a detailed and visual guide on how yo buy your LRT-2 tickets from the TVM, regardless if you are planning to get a Single Journey Ticket or a Stored Value Ticket, you may check out this video from Jenn Reyes Vlogs.
Summary
Whether you’re a tourist exploring the city or a local commuter, familiarizing yourself with the ticketing process will enhance your LRT-2 experience. In doing so, you can then head to your next TVM transaction confidently and independently, without seeking for assistance from the LRT-2 personnel on-site. It’s really quite simple, as long as you know how to follow instructions. If in doubt, you can also always seek the assistance of LRT-2 personnel on-site.
Re-stamping of chassis number refers to the process of stamping the chassis number of motor vehicles with defaced chassis numbers. It is usually done by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) or its accredited manufacturer or rebuilder, but not before the registered owner of the motor vehicle (MV) subject for re-stamping has acquired all the requirements and authorization necessary for the procedure. After all, the LTO, as the regulatory body, needs to confirm that the vehicle and its parts are the MV’s original components by matching it with the unique identifiers embedded in the VIN which also includes serial numbers to ensure that no parts of a certain car has been involved in anything shady. Hence, the need for Certificate of Re-stamping from the Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG).
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to secure a Certificate of Re-stamping from the PNP-HPG in order to be able to secure the authorization you need to have the chassis number re-stamped, regardless if it is for vehicles of which the chassis number is unreadable due to corrosion or one which has been imported from a region that does not require the vehicle identification number (VIN) being stamped in the chassis/frame.
A Certificate of Re-stamping refers to the document issued by the PNP-HPG to the registered MV owner or his/her authorized representative or any applicant for re-stamping. The certification is issued upon request, after the requesting party submits or comply with the documentary requirements necessary in filing of alarm. Its issuance is subject to the approval of the HPG Motor Vehicle Clearing Committee (MVCC) and the PNP-HPG Director and it usually follows actual chassis re-stamping procedures to ensure that the chassis number, also known as the vehicle identification number (VIN) or frame number, is visible and readable.
The Certificate of Re-stamping is a document that ensures that the LTO as well as the Duty Inspector in charge of the MV’s Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR) will see that any stenciling or macro-etching procedure done on the subject MV is completed by LTO-accredited manufacturer or rebuilder legally.
Re-stamping of Tampered, Defaced or Corroded Engine and Chassis Numbers of Motor Vehicles
There are two reasons why one would need to secure a certificate of re-stamping: One, when re-stamping recovered stolen motor vehicles with tampering, and two, for re-stamping of motor vehicles with no tampering.
Re-stamping of Recovered Stolen/Carnapped Motor Vehicle with Tampering
Motor vehicles with tampered engine and/or chassis numbers whose identities are subsequently identified through expert findings of the PNP Crime Laboratory Group or any equivalent office of other law enforcement agencies should be re-stamped in order to restore their original identities. The recovered Motor Vehicles with tampered engine and/or chassis number included the Vehicle Information Management System (VIMS) must first apply for lifting of the alarm prior to the application for Re-stamping.
Re-stamping of Motor Vehicles with no Tampering (Re-stamping as a Result of Natural Deterioration)
Motor Vehicles with corroded and unreadable engine and/or chassis numbers as a result of their ordinary wear and tear, acts of nature, and other circumstances, incidents, or accidents that cause their serial numbers to be freckled and/or tarnished must also apply for re-stamping to reinstate their original identities.
Benefits of Securing a Certificate of Re-Stamping
The actual re-stamping of chassis numbers actually comes with certain benefits, sure. But the acquisition of a certificate of re-stamping ensures that the subject MV will have:
Easier renewal of vehicle registration
A legal document showing the Clear and visible VIN for easier MV verification
Visible chassis number for checking for apprehensions and alarm
Clean MVIR
Better chassis readability for verification of public authorities purposes
Who Needs to Request for a Certificate of Re-Stamping
The following people are the only ones who are eligible to or may need to request for and acquire a Certificate of Lifting of Alarm:
Registered owner
Authorized representative of motor vehicle owner
Requirements For Processing a Certificate of Re-Stamping
Listed below are the complete documentary requirements that one must prepare prior to making a request for Certificate of Re-Stamping for the subject MV.
Re-stamping of Recovered Stolen/Carnapped Motor Vehicle with Tampering
If MV was recovered by HPG: One (1) original copy of Recovery Report
If voluntarily surrendered and/or recovered by a civilian: One (1) original copy of Affidavit of self-recovery
If the subject MV was restored of its identity by the Car Manufacturing Company: One (1) original copy of Certification from Manufacturer
One (1) original copy of Certified True Copy of MV’s record from LTO
One (1) original copy of PNP-HPG VIMS Print out
Re-stamping of Motor Vehicles with no Tampering (Re-stamping as a Result of Natural Deterioration)
One (1) original copy of Original OR/CR of the subject MV
If the MV is encumbered: One (1) original copy of Certificate of Encumbrance and one (1) photocopy of the OR/CR authenticated by the financing company
If the MV is registered to a company: One (1) original copy of Secretary certificate or Board resolution stating the authorized user of the MV and giving authorization for the applicant to apply for Re-stamping
One (1) photocopy of MV Inspection Report (MVIR) authenticated by the LTO and clearly showing the stencil of the engine and chassis numbers
If MV is involved in a vehicular accident: One (1) original copy of police report from the local PNP unit who has territorial jurisdiction on the area where the incident occurred
One (1) original copy of Affidavit of Re-stamping
One (1) original copy of Affidavit of Mechanic
One (1) original copy of valid ID of Mechanic
One (1) original copy of Certification from manufacturer if the same metal of chassis/engine number when it was manufactured.
Duly notarized and completely filled out Application Form
One (1) original copy of valid identification cards of the rightful owner
One (1) original copy of valid identification (ID) cards of the person who had control of the motor vehicle when it was seized
Two (2) pcs of 2×3 picture of the rightful owner
Two (2) pcs of 2×3 picture of the person who had control of the motor vehicle when it was seized
One (1) original copy of Spot recovery report of MV.
One (1) original copy of Turnover release of MV.
One (1) original copy of Certificate of no claim from insurance company or affidavit of no claim.
One (1) original copy of Macro Etching Result
One (1) original copy of First Endorsement from LTO
One (1) original copy of Picture of MV showing the Rear, Front, Left, and Right sides
One (1) original copy of Picture of MV showing the affected area (Chassis or Engine Number)
One (1) original copy of PNP-HPG VIMS Print out
If the applicant is a representative of registered owner: One (1) original copy of Special Power of Attorney (SPA)
For surviving spouse: One (1) original copy of Death Certificate and Marriage Certificate
For surviving heirs: One (1) original copy of Extrajudicial Settlement
For authorized representatives: One (1) original copy of Special Power of Attorney (SPA) and One (1) original copy and one (1) photocopy of Valid ID
Procedures when Requesting for Certificate of Re-Stamping
For the complete procedures for securing a Certificate of Re-Stamping, please see the steps below:
Step 2. Head on to the Office of the Motor Vehicle Complaint Section (MVCS) and secure an Application Form for Re-stamping from the MVCS /RHPU’s Duty Investigator.
Step 3. Fill up the Application Form for Re-stamping from MVCS /RHPU and have the duty investigator check the form.
Step 4. Secure a copy of the Notary of Re-stamping form from the Duty Investigator or have it downloaded and printed from the PNP-HPG website.
Step 5. Have the Re-stamping request form notarized.
Step 6. After getting the Application Request form for Re-stamping notarized, submit it, along with the other photocopies of the requirements to the duty investigator for review and evaluation of completeness.
Step 7. Upon approval, head on to the Duty PI Examiner of the PNP Crime Laboratory for the Macro-Etching Examination.
Step 8. Secure the order of payment from the Duty PI Examiner of the PNP Crime Laboratory.
Step 9. Settle the fees for the Macro-Etching examination at Landbank.
Step 10. Once paid, bring the motor vehicle in for the Macro-Etching examination and wait for the release of the Macro-Etching examination and PI results.
Step 11. Submit the documentary requirements to the Duty Investigator and wait for the completeness evaluation to be finished.
Step 12. Wait while the duty investigator prepares the Investigation Report (IR) or Memorandum (SOD-MVCS/RHPU’s) and get it approved by the Chief of MVCS.
Step 13. Once approved, wait until the IR is signed by the signatories for endorsement of the lifting request to HPG MVCC and Director of HPG for approval.
Step 14. Once approved, wait for the Re-stamping certificate to be issued by the Record Section of the DDO Office.
Via the Regional Highway Patrol Unit (RHPU)
Re-stamping as Result of Carnapping with Tampered Engine and/or Chassis
Step 1. Visit the nearest Regional Highway Patrol Unit (RHPU).
Step 2. Go to the Receiving Section and secure an Application Form for Re-stamping Certificate.
Step 3. Completely fill up the Application form for Re-stamping and submit it to the Action Officer who will send it over to the HPG headquarters.
Step 4. Wait for the First endorsement from the LTO.
Step 5. Once you have the first endorsement, proceed to the Investigation Section and have the designated investigator retrieve the application for lifting of alarm.
Step 6. Come back after six (6) working days and proceed to the releasing section to claim the HPG Second Endorsement Letter with the approved Investigation Report.
Re-stamping as a Result of Natural Deterioration
Step 1. Visit the nearest Regional Highway Patrol Unit (RHPU).
Step 2. Go to the Receiving Section and secure an Application Form for Re-stamping Certificate.
Step 3. Completely fill up the Application form for Re-stamping and submit it to the Action Officer who will send it over to the HPG headquarters.
Step 4. Wait for the First endorsement from the LTO.
Step 5. Once you have the first endorsement, proceed to the Investigation Section and have the designated investigator evaluate the completeness and authenticity of the documentary requirements.
Step 6. Come back after six (6) working days and proceed to the releasing section to claim the HPG Second Endorsement Letter with the approved Investigation Report.
Processing time
When filed with the PNP-HPG MVCS, the processing of the request for Certificate of Re-stamping takes approximately thirteen (13) days and twenty-six (26) minutes to complete, after the complete documentary requirements have been submitted. When done via the RHPU, then it takes at least seven (7) working days.
Fees
It’s free, though you may have to spend some for the requirements like the notary fee, macro-etching, and photocopy and certification of certified true copies of required documents.
Where to file the Request
To file the request for cancellation or lifting of the alarm certificate, you will need to go to the PNP-HPG Office of the Motor Vehicle Complaint Section (MVCS). It may also be processed at any of the various Regional Highway Patrol Units (RHPUs).
Downloadable Request Form
The forms for Request For Certificate of Re-Stamping, along with other forms used when making requests involving the PNP-HPG and any of its departments, can be found via this link: http://hpg.pnp.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Request-for-Lifting-of-Alarm.pdf
Important Reminders
If you are among those who need a Certificate Of Re-stamping for a particular vehicle, then here are some things you’d want to remember:
There will be separate application forms for Tampered Motor Vehicle included in the Nationwide Alarm/Watchlist and Motor Vehicles with no Tampering and not included the alarm and watchlist;
For Tampered Motor Vehicle included in the Nationwide Alarm/Watchlist: The applicant needs to first secure a certificate of lifting of alarm prior or simultaneous to the application for re-stamping;
Applications for re-stamping may be submitted and processed either before the Motor Vehicle Concern Section (MVCS) or the Regional Highway Patrol Units (RHPUs).
In case the application for re-stamping originated from the RHPUs, the application will be processed and approved by the respective Regional Chief of the RHPUs; if, and only if that Tampered Motor Vehicle applying for re-stamping is approved by the Director, HPG upon recommendation of the MVCC;
There shall be two (2) copies of Claim Stub, one copy (1) for the applicant and another copy to be attached to the case folder.
Claim stub shall contain the following:
Nature of Application
Name of the applicant
The applicant’s contact number;
Date of filing and date of release;
Name of investigator
Telephone number of the HPG office/unit responsible in releasing the result of the application
Name of the HPG office/unit responsible in releasing the result of the application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For more information, here are some common questions and answers regarding the processing of requests for Certificate of Re-Stamping:
1. What is an Identity Transfer?
Identity transfer in motor vehicles refers to the act of transferring the engine number, chassis number, body tag number, plate number, and any other identifying marks of a motor vehicle declared as “total wreck” or is beyond economic repair by concerned car Insurance companies and/or law enforcement agencies after its involvement in a vehicular accident or other incident and registers the same into another factory-made body or vehicle unit, of the same classification, type, make or model.
2. Is Re-stamping of motor vehicles illegal?
No, but it has to be authorized by the relevant agencies like the LTO, PNP-HPG, and HPG MVCS first before it is done.
3. Is a certificate of lifting of alarm necessary before re-stamping?
It depends. If the motor vehicle was tampered with and included in the Nationwide Alarm/Watchlist, then yes, the registered owner needs to first secure a certificate of lifting of alarm. However, it can be done prior or simultaneous to the application for re-stamping.
4. Is it better to process the request for Certificate of re-stamping from the Regional Highway Patrol Unit (RHPU)?
Not necessarily. The procedures for processing re-stamping requests via the Regional Highway Patrol Unit (RHPU) may seem simpler but the requirements remain the same. Plus, it will still need the approval of the MVCS and the Director of the PNP-HPG, so they’re kind of the same thing.
Summary
The Certificate of Re-stamping is an important document issued to the registered owner or his/her authorized representative or any applicant requesting for the lifting of alarm on a motor vehicle. It proves that a recovered motor vehicle can be released to the owner or party entitled to the possession of the subject MV upon submission of the required documents. It is issued after an application for the lifting of alarm is processed and approved by the Director, HPG, upon the endorsement of the HPG Motor Vehicle Clearing Committee.
