Beep launches NFC tech-based card loading

MANILA, Philippines — AF Payments Inc., the operator of beep card, has launched a first-in-the-market near-field communication (NFC) technology-based card loading as part of the company’s continuing efforts to provide convenience to its users.

It is utilizing NFC technology present in mobile phones to enable users to conveniently top up their card in just a few taps.

Through this innovation, beep cardholders will be able to enjoy real-time loading of their stored value cards straight from their mobile app.

“Our innovations are always aligned with what’s convenient for beep card customers. We’re adding a contactless way to reload that’s actually received in real-time in order to help our cardholders save time in queuing and to limit their exposure to COVID-19 when outside,” AF Payments chief commercial officer Sharon Fong said.

To use the feature, cardholders must download the latest version of the beep card app on their NFC-enabled smartphone.

In the main menu, they should tap buy beep load and select the card to be loaded or input the details of an unregistered card.

Enter the amount or choose from the given denominations and then complete the payment details and wait for validation.

Receive the load by placing the card against the back of the phone, and do not remove until the confirmation pops up on the screen.

AF Payments said the app currently accepts payments via Mastercard, Visa, or JCB credit and debit cards, as well as GCash, PayMaya, or QR PH, and carries a minimal processing fee.

“With more and more transport and retail partners joining the beep ecosystem, we strongly encourage Filipino consumers and businesses alike to maximize the benefits of our contactless payment solution,” Fong said.

AF Payments plans to roll out more features on the beep app in the coming months to provide passengers relevant information and services to make daily commuting a hassle-free experience.

Apart from real-time reloading, cardholders can use the mobile app to check their balance and monitor their transactions.

Users can also earn reward points for every spend transaction, which can be redeemed as beep load or QR tickets for select routes.

The beep cards are available at any LRT or MRT station, EDSA bus stops, select P2P terminals, jeepney terminals, and Ministop branches in Metro Manila.

AF Payments is urging customers to buy only from legitimate and authorized resellers for their safety.

AF Payments is a consortium of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and Ayala Corp. that provides contactless payment solutions through its integrated product and service offerings.

The beep card, which is reloadable and valid for four years, can be used in LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3, EDSA buses, P2P buses, and select PUVs, tollways, and retail partners.