Half-Price Ride Muna: MRT-3 at LRT-2 Fares Cut 50% Starting March 23

Metro Manila commuters are getting a big breather next week after the Department of Transportation said fares on MRT-3 and LRT-2 will be cut by 50% starting March 23. The move comes as fuel prices keep climbing because of the conflict in the Middle East, with officials saying the discount is meant to ease the daily gastos of passengers.

Transportation Secretary Banoy Lopez said the order followed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to soften the impact of rising oil prices. The government’s pitch is simple: if train rides become much cheaper, more commuters may leave their cars at home and avoid spending more on fuel.

The fare cut will apply not only to regular riders but also to blue beep card users and white card holders, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and students. So yes, malawak ang sakop. What the DOTr has not yet clarified is how long the 50% promo will stay in place.

The agency also said it is studying whether a similar discount can be rolled out for LRT-1 passengers. At the same time, the government has been exploring other transport relief measures, including toll road discounts and the suspension of fare hikes for public utility vehicles.

For commuters dealing with nonstop price pressure, this is one of the clearest short-term relief steps so far. Hindi pa nito maaayos lahat, but for workers and students who ride every day, a half-price train fare could mean real savings by the end of the week.

Source: Rappler