Rail lines were only the tip of the iceberg, it seems.
All students in the Philippines, from grade school to college level, will be able to avail themselves of a 20% fare discount on all forms of transportation now that Republic Act 11314—also known as the Student Fare Discount Act—has been signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte.
The benefit will be in effect year-round, including during holidays. This applies to land-based forms of public transportation like jeepneys, public buses, UV express shuttles, taxis, and even TNVS rides like Grab (though the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board already requires these services to offer a discount), as well as passenger ships and airlines.
The only requirement is for students to present a valid school ID or a validated enrollment form. Post-graduate students, such as those taking up medicine and law, are not covered.
Students may also avail themselves of the 20% discount at rail lines like the MRT, LRT, and PNR upon presenting a valid school ID. The free train rides that began last month require a student pass, which you can register for here.
This is turning out to be a very good year for student commuters. Hopefully, authorities can make sure the transportation sector gets in line with the Student Fare Discount Act.
