MRT-3 commuters can expect a safer and more convenient contact-tracing procedure come next Monday.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has announced that it will be launching a new contact tracing app for the rail line on January 18 called MRT-3 Trace. This will utilize a QR code, and will replace the pen-and-paper setup that stations are currently using.
According to DOTr head Arthur Tugade, this move will help the agency further reduce contact between commuters and MRT-3 personnel. Stations also stand to benefit from faster-moving queues thanks to the QR code-based procedure.
Registering is simple enough: Just visit trace.dotrmrt3.gov.ph, fill out the necessary information (date of birth, full name, contact number, and so on), and download the app on your smartphone. Users must scan unique QR codes at designated areas of each MRT-3 station, then show their verification code to personnel prior to entering.
No smartphone? No problem. The DOTr says the option to manually fill out health declaration forms will still be available. Check out the full announcement below:
While the app will already be available to use on January 18, the new procedure’s full implementation is schedule some time away in February 2021. The agency says this is to give commuters enough time to familiarize themselves with the new app and contact-tracing process.
If you have a smartphone, you should definitely download the app. This is definitely good news, despite the fact that some local governments have already had procedures like this in place for quite a while. Better late than never.
