By Kenneth Marcos 
Morning commuters packed the MRT-3 stations as usual, watching every peso as fares and daily costs add up. For many workers and students, any small savings can help stretch the budget. This January, some relief returns as LANDBANK revives a popular promo that rewards commuters for choosing cashless payments.
State-owned Land Bank of the Philippines announced the return of its “Balik-Pasahe with LANDBANK” promo, offering MRT-3 riders a chance to get their fare back through cashback. The promo runs from January 8 to 31, 2026, and is open to commuters who use eligible LANDBANK cards when tapping in at MRT-3 stations.
Under the promo, passengers who pay their MRT-3 fare using LANDBANK Visa Debit, Mastercard Prepaid, or Mastercard Credit Cards can receive a cashback equivalent to their ride. The cards must be enabled for contactless payments and display the paywave or contactless symbol near the chip.
LANDBANK said the promo is part of its effort to make daily commuting easier and more affordable, while also encouraging the use of digital and cashless payments. With rising transportation and living costs, free rides through cashback can help ease the daily burden of commuters, especially minimum wage earners, office workers, and students.
The initiative also supports the government’s push for digital transactions in public transport. The MRT-3 Automated Fare Collection System allows passengers to simply tap their card at the gate, reducing the need for cash and speeding up passenger flow during peak hours.
According to LANDBANK, the promo highlights how technology can improve everyday services. By integrating banking and transport systems, commuters save time and avoid the hassle of lining up for single-journey tickets or reloading cards.
The bank stressed that the promo follows consumer protection rules and is covered by a valid permit from the Department of Trade and Industry. LANDBANK is also regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, ensuring that financial transactions remain secure and reliable.
MRT-3 serves thousands of passengers daily, connecting key areas in Metro Manila. For many Filipinos, it remains one of the fastest and most affordable ways to get to work, school, or business districts. Programs that lower commuting costs, even temporarily, can have a meaningful impact on household expenses.
LANDBANK said it continues to support programs that empower Filipinos through accessible financial services. Beyond transport promos, the bank plays a major role in funding agriculture, infrastructure, social services, and local development, especially in rural and underserved communities.
As more Filipinos shift to cashless payments, banks and government agencies see an opportunity to improve efficiency and transparency. LANDBANK encouraged commuters to check if their cards are contactless-enabled and to review the promo’s terms to ensure eligibility.
With the return of the Balik-Pasahe promo, daily commuters get more than just a free ride. They become part of a growing move toward digital, connected, and commuter-friendly public services that aim to make city life a little easier.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News