G-Pass, the newest way to enter the MRT using a wireless Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip, made its debut last Friday.
What is G-Pass?
An alternative way to enter the MRT using a chip instead of a ticket. The G-Pass is stored value chip that is tapped on a sensor upon entry and exit from the MRT. The chip can be re-loaded with MRT fare credits using G-Cash or through a G-Pass reloading booth.
I tried out G-Pass during the weekend. My initial feedback is generally positive. There are (as always) areas of improvement.
- Purchase of the Php100 G-Pass kit comes with Php50 MRT fare credit (not cellphone load as others think).
- Quick entry to the MRT by tapping the chip on the sensor
- An audible sound and a green light indicates that the user can pass the MRT gate
- Downside: There’s no indicator of remaining fare balance at the MRT gate. The G-Pass representatives explained that the balance is sent to the user via SMS to the registered Globe phone.
- Smart cellphone users CAN use G-Pass. I see two choices:
(a) Smart cellphone users, do NOT register the G-Pass (I recommend this) or
(b) register the G-Pass with a friend’s Globe cellphone number. In this case, each time the G-Pass is used, your friend will receive an SMS showing the G-Pass transaction (i.e. that you entered/exited the MRT). — not good for your privacy 🙁
I’m optimistic about G-Pass. I think Globe has a winner here. But they’ll have to install the necessary support systems to make it succeed — fast and convenient reloading of G-Pass, accessibility of G-Cash etc. Ironically, the longer the lines at regular MRT ticket sales, the better for G-Pass sales.
How about you, will you buy a G-Pass chip? Will the technology fly?
ka edong
tech usiyosero