The Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3), under the Department of Transportation (DOTr), issued a public advisory on Friday warning commuters about fraudulent beep cards being sold online that falsely promise unlimited train rides.
“The public is advised that recent postings advertising the sale of beep cards with unlimited rides, circulating under the Facebook page ‘Manila Metro’ are fake and unauthorized by MRT-3,” the agency said in an official statement.
“These online advertisements, often posted on suspicious social media pages, are not legitimate and may be part of a scam designed to trick individuals,” it added.
As of this report, a search for the “Manila Metro” account on Facebook yielded no active results. However, a quick search via Google indicated that Facebook had flagged and blocked the page due to the spread of “false information.”
The MRT-3 management urged the public to exercise caution and avoid sharing personal details or sending payments to unverified sellers or online pages.
“The public is also reminded to refer only to MRT-3’s official Facebook page for accurate updates and legitimate announcements,” the advisory continued.
The agency also warned that it will take legal action against anyone found misusing the MRT-3’s name, logo, or branding for personal or fraudulent gain.
Beep cards are reloadable smart cards used for fare payment on trains and other public transport systems. They can be purchased at official train station booths and through authorized online platforms.
AF Payments Inc. (AFPI) is the sole legal owner of the beep™ trademark and the exclusive issuer of all beep cards.
