From left: GCash AVP and head of enterprise Martin Limgenco II, LTFRB 11 regional director Nonito Llanos III, and RTOA president Ryan Sia
In line with its thrust toward an inclusive cashless ecosystem in the country, GCash inked a partnership with the Regional Transport Operators Association (RTOA) of Davao and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Region XI.
This joint commitment will enable 3,000 taxi drivers and RTOA members to accept payments through the Scan to Pay feature of the GCash app. Davaoeños and tourists alike will be able to enjoy hassle-free transactions just by scanning the taxi’s QR code when paying for their metered fare.
The signing of the memorandum of agreement was attended by LTFRB Region XI Regional Director Nonito Llanos III, GCash AVP and Head of Enterprise Martin Limgenco III, RTOA President Ryan Sia, and RTOA Members.
“At GCash, we are steadfast in our goal of promoting finance for all. The rollout of the Scan to Pay option in public transportation in Davao is just the beginning. With the help of our stakeholders in the public sector, we believe that we can collectively find solutions to enhance the fare collection system in the Philippines,” said Cathlyn Pavia, GCash Associate Vice President for Public Sector and Partnerships.
Regional Director Llanos is hopeful that this development will receive positive response from the commuting public, especially with more merchants in the city transacting through GCash.
"We are happy that GCash has partnered with us in leveling up the services of our taxis here in the region — to provide an accessible, affordable, convenient and reliable transportation for Region XI through modernization and digitalization. That's why we are making history today with the partnership of RTOA, LTFRB Region XI, and GCash," Llanos said.
Sia welcomes this digital scheme as it provides security and convenience for both taxi drivers and commuters.
"Cashless transactions minimize the need for taxi drivers to prepare change for bills since riders will be paying the exact amount. Aside from that, this will also make transactions easier and more convenient for both parties," said Limgenco.
At present, there are over 6,000 GCash merchants in Davao City, including restaurants, hotels, resorts, and establishments.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas also rolled out its PalengQR PH Plus initiative in Bangkerohan Public Market last year and the public markets of Toril and Agdao earlier this year. Vendors in the aforementioned public markets are now accepting digital payments through GCash.
Filipinos, especially the unbanked, can enjoy a wide range of safe and convenient financial solutions such as Send Money, GLoans, and GGives as the country's leading mobile wallet continues to make finance accessible for all. Download the GCash app for free on Google Play and the App Store.