Payment company clarifies Beep issue

CEBU, Philippines —  The AF Payments, Inc. (AFPI) has clarified that it is only the modern jeepneys of Beeprides that announced the suspension of its operations, and not the transport digital payment system.

In a statement sent to the media, AFPI, the company behind the trademarked beep™ brand, said it is a different entity from the Beeprides, whose modern jeepneys would suspend its fleet.

“beep™, the trusted brand used by AFPI for its contactless smart cards and Automated Fare Collection System (AFCS), continues to operate in Metro Manila and various provinces across the country,” read the statement.

It was reported earlier that Beep Cebu, in which the AFPI has clarified as Beeprides, has announced its six-month suspension of its operations following the problems the company was facing, which include loss of income.

“Commuters can continue to enjoy the unparalleled convenience that the beep™ system provides for their daily commutes. beep™ cards are readily available for purchase at transportation terminals and popular online channels,” the same statement further reads.

It also said that beep™ AFCS is still in full operation across transportation modes, including LRT1, LRT2, MRT3, city and provincial buses, and modern jeepneys nationwide.

“Our transport partners, including all bus operators at the Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT) and other modern jeepney services, remain committed to serving the daily commuting needs of our valued commuters. AF Payments Inc. stands as a trusted and dependable partner for both transport operators and commuters alike. Our unwavering mission is to provide the best possible commuting experience,” said JJ Moreno, CEO of AF Payments Inc.

The statement also noted that AF Payments has reportedly taken legal action against Beeprides, for copyright infringement.

“This case is currently pending in the courts. This aims to clarify any confusion among the public regarding the two distinct companies that serve the public transportation sector,” the AFPI said. —   GAN (FREEMAN)