Ferry operator rolls out QR transport ticketing

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu-based Topline Express Ferries announced the activation of the first QR code technology payment and passenger ticketing service.

Topline Express Ferries, the company that operates ferry services from Mactan Island to Cebu City and other neighboring islands like Camotes Island, has partnered with AF Payments Inc., to allow cashless transaction at the port area in Marina Wharf Mactan.

Topline will now be using QR code technology for payment and passenger ticketing. A QR code (Quick Response Code), which is a two-dimensional barcode that stores information that can be read rapidly by a QR reader, allows quick passenger validation and entry into the paid or boarding areas.

AF Payments Inc., the company that modernized payment and ticketing in transportation through beep™, implements the first QR code transport ticketing system in the Philippines.

“This is a new era in transport ticketing. It’s a smart solution where both operators and commuters enjoy the efficiency and ease of use associated with QR technology. We are grateful to Topline Express Ferries for supporting this initiative and hope to replicate the same elsewhere in the Philippines,” said Joey Lim, Chairman of the Board of AF Payments Inc.

Rene Almendras, President of AF Payments Inc., said the company is proud that the technology is developed in the Philippines, by Filipinos and for Filipinos.

“To accelerate the growth of QR ticketing and payments in the country, we are opening our QR ticketing ecosystem to other market players. We invite transport operators, payments companies, and developers to work with us in widening the reach of QR ticketing,” added Almendras.

This system allows commuters to buy their QR code-based tickets that they will scan before boarding the ferry.

The new system will replace manually validated paper tickets to ensure quicker validation and a hassle-free commuter experience.

In addition to the beep™-powered Topline Express Ferries tap cards, AF Payments Inc.is bringing in the modern convenience of mobile payments.

In partnership with GCash, passengers of Topline Express Ferries can now pay their fare using the GCash mobile app.

Commuters also have to go to the ticket counter, open their GCash app, choose Pay QR, generate their own QR code, and scan it on the beep™ QR reader.

The QR ticket will automatically print and the fare will be deducted from their GCash account.

“We are very excited to be the pioneer marine transportation partner of AF Payments Inc. in Cebu. Topline believes in enhancing the commute experience. Passenger safety and convenience are a priority to us, so this is a much-needed development that will greatly benefit the riding public,” said Bridgette Lim-Mueller, vice president operations of Topline Express Ferries.

“We are committed to improve the payment experience of the riders of Topline Express Ferries. Our partnership with AF Payments Inc. allows us to use our QR code to facilitate a convenient way of paying. GCash users can now pay for their Topline ferry rides using the GCash App. We plan to replicate this model with other transport service providers. As we continue to find ways to enable a cashless ecosystem, we will always challenge ourselves to explore more ways to leverage on our technology to improve the experience of our customers. Because with GCash, what can’t you do?” added Anthony Thomas, Chief Executive Officer of Mynt.

With 6.5 million beep™ cards in the market and over 20 million GCash accountholders nationwide, this initiative is expected to benefit a sizable portion of e-wallet customers in the country. (FREEMAN)