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Commuters on Metro Manila's busiest railway can now experience a faster, more convenient way to travel. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) today officially launched cashless payment options for the MRT-3, marking a significant upgrade in the urban transit system and positioning it as a pioneer in seamless payment technology.



DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon led the unveiling at the MRT-3 Ayala Station, personally demonstrating the ease of the new system. He highlighted that commuters can now simply tap their debit or credit cards directly at the gates or, for e-wallet users, generate a QR code from their mobile apps for scanning.


"There is no additional fare here," Secretary Dizon assured commuters. "The system is, whatever is deducted from your GCash, your credit card, your debit card, it is the same as if you bought a single journey ticket."

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This innovative payment setup is touted by the transport chief as the first of its kind globally, capable of accepting both Near Field Communication (NFC) taps and QR codes from a single terminal. The DOTr also announced plans to extend these same cashless options to LRT-1 and LRT-2 lines in the near future, with the support of GCash and RCBC.



How to Use GCash at MRT-3 Gates

For the millions of Filipinos who rely on e-wallets, paying for their MRT-3 ride using the GCash app is now remarkably straightforward:

STEP 1 - Open your GCash app: Ensure you have the latest version installed on your smartphone.


STEP 2 - Look for "Commute" and tap it: This dedicated icon simplifies access to the QR ticketing feature.

STEP 3 - A QR Code will appear: This unique code is your digital ticket.

STEP 4 - Tap or scan your QR Code at an MRT-3 entry gate: Simply present your phone screen with the QR code to the designated scanner.


STEP 5 - The gate will open: Proceed through the turnstile.

STEP 6 - Do the same at the exit gate: The process is identical for exiting the station, ensuring your fare is correctly calculated.


Important Note: Your GCash account must have a minimum balance of ₱28 to successfully use the Commute QR code feature. For added convenience, users can also download a copy of their Commute QR for subsequent gate uses.


Wide Range of Participating Banks

Beyond GCash, the DOTr confirmed a broad list of banks supporting the MRT-3's new cashless payment method, offering flexibility for cardholders:



  • GCash: Visa (Debit), QR Code
  • Landbank: Mastercard (Debit/Credit), Visa (Debit)
  • BPI: Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • BDO: Mastercard (Credit), Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • HSBC: Visa (Debit)
  • GOTyme: Visa (Debit)
  • Union Bank: Visa (Debit)
  • RCBC: Mastercard (Debit/Credit), Visa (Debit)
  • Metrobank: Mastercard (Credit)
  • Security Bank: Mastercard (Credit)
  • Maya: Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • Chinabank: Mastercard (Credit)


This expansion of payment options is expected to significantly reduce queuing times, improve efficiency, and enhance the overall commuting experience for MRT-3 passengers, ushering in a new era of modern urban transportation in the Philippines.

You Can Now Pay For Your MRT-3 Ride Using Your GCash App!


The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced on Monday that classes at all levels will be suspended in several parts of Luzon on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, due to persistent heavy rains brought by the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat).



The following areas will have no classes:

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Metro Manila

Zambales

Bataan

Pampanga

Bulacan

Cavite

Batangas

Rizal

Pangasinan

Tarlac

Occidental Mindoro


Rainy Day Essentials

Don't let the gloomy weather dampen your spirits! Here are some rainy day essentials to keep you cozy and prepared:





According to the DILG, the suspension was made in coordination with local government units (LGUs) and based on advisories from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), as intense rainfall continues to pose risks of flooding and landslides.



Public Advisory


The public is advised to stay alert for further announcements from local authorities and PAGASA. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor weather updates through official government channels.



Classes may resume once weather conditions improve and areas are deemed safe. Schools, parents, and students are encouraged to prioritize safety and preparedness during this time.


Classes Suspended in Several Luzon Areas on July 22 Due to Habagat Rains


Facing sky-high last-minute flight prices for that spontaneous getaway? A new partnership aims to provide Filipinos with an affordable and scenic alternative.



Travelers can now book last-minute ferry trips to some of the country's most beloved beach destinations, thanks to a new collaboration between Klook and 2GO Travel.

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This exciting partnership offers a solution for those yearning for a spontaneous vacation without breaking the bank. Travelers can now secure affordable, last-minute ferry tickets to picturesque destinations including:




The booking flexibility is a key highlight, catering to spontaneous travel plans. Tickets to Cebu can be booked up to 7 days before the scheduled trip, while routes to Coron, Puerto Princesa, or Caticlan offer even shorter lead times, allowing bookings up to just 3 days before departure.



For groups looking for an elevated experience without the hefty price tag, the new offering features a special "Last-Minute Travel Hack." Groups of four are encouraged to book the Business Suite, which allows them to enjoy the entire room to themselves, complete with an amazing sea view. This private experience is available for as low as ₱2,427 per person. An added bonus? Tickets for the Business Suite already come with meals included, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free journey.





This collaboration aims to make domestic travel more accessible and enjoyable, transforming last-minute travel from a budget-busting dilemma into an exciting, affordable adventure. Travelers are encouraged to visit Klook to explore their options and embark on their spontaneous Philippine getaway.


More Travel News in the Philippines


You Can Now Book 2GO Ferry Tickets on Klook!


Bitcoin continued its historic ascent today, surging past $117,000 and even touching $118,000 early on Friday, July 11, setting a fresh all-time high.



This latest milestone extends a remarkable rally that has seen the world's largest cryptocurrency consistently break records throughout the week, previously surpassing the $111,000 and $113,000 marks.


The unprecedented surge is attributed to a confluence of factors fueling strong bullish sentiment in the crypto market. A primary driver appears to be the robust institutional demand, particularly the significant inflows of capital into spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) in major global markets.

These investment vehicles have made it easier for traditional financial institutions and investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin, legitimizing it further as an asset class.


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Adding to the positive sentiment are recent favorable policy signals, notably a perceived pro-crypto stance from the current US administration. Regulatory developments, such as ongoing discussions and legislative efforts like the GENIUS Act concerning stablecoins, are contributing to increased investor confidence and a more predictable regulatory environment for digital assets.




Bitcoin's rally also appears to be correlated with broader market trends, including the strong performance of tech stocks – exemplified by companies like Nvidia reaching a staggering $4 trillion valuation. This indicates a rising risk appetite among investors, who are increasingly comfortable allocating capital to growth-oriented and innovative assets.



Furthermore, Bitcoin's inherent fixed supply cap positions it as a potential hedge against inflation amidst ongoing global economic uncertainties. Its scarcity, combined with growing demand, continues to underpin its long-term value proposition.

As Bitcoin continues its record-breaking run, analysts are closely watching market dynamics to see if this momentum will push the cryptocurrency even higher in the coming weeks.


Bitcoin Hit All Time High at $118,000


Renewing your driver's license in the Philippines just got a whole lot easier. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has officially rolled out its Online Driver’s License Renewal System (ODLRS), now accessible through the eGovPH mobile app.



This new digital platform is designed to offer motorists a convenient and efficient way to renew their licenses from anywhere, cutting down on travel time and long queues at LTO offices.


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LTO Chief, Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II, emphasized the agency's commitment to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to digitalize government services. "This is a better alternative for going to LTO offices since you don’t need to shell out money for transportation to our offices and don’t even need to queue in any license renewal offices," Mendoza stated, highlighting the "fast and comfortable way of transaction" even from home or office.


The LTO is continually expanding its digital services to reach all Filipinos, including those abroad, aiming to make all transactions quicker and more user-friendly.




Your Step-by-Step Guide to Online Driver's License Renewal

To take advantage of this new digital convenience, motorists need to download the eGovPH app, which is available for free on both the App Store (for iOS) and Google Play Store (for Android). After downloading and installing the app on your smartphone, follow these steps:


STEP 1: Access LTO Services via eGovPH

  • Open the eGovPH app.

  • Find the icon labeled ‘NGA’ (National Government Agency) and click it.

  • Locate and select ‘LTO.’

STEP 2: Initiate Online Driver’s Application

  • From the LTO menu, select ‘Online Driver’s Application.’

  • Click on ‘Renew Your Driver’s License.’

STEP 3: Upload Your Physical License

  • You will be prompted to upload or capture clear photos of both the front and back of your physical driver’s license.

  • Once uploaded, allow the system a minute to three minutes for analysis and validation of the card.

STEP 4: Review and Verify Details

  • After successful validation, carefully review all the displayed details for accuracy. If everything is correct, click submit.

STEP 5: Take a New Photo

  • You will then be guided to take a new photograph. Ensure you abide by the required standard format as detailed in the on-screen instructions.



Essential Prerequisites for a Smooth Online Process

To ensure a fast and hassle-free online renewal, LTO Chief Mendoza advises motorists to complete two crucial requirements before beginning the online application:

Telemedicine Medical Examination:

  1. Within the LTO ODLRS Portal (accessible via the eGovPH app), click on ‘Telemedicine.’

  2. Book an appointment for your online medical examination.

  3. Attend and complete the online medical assessment as scheduled.

Online Driver’s Enhancement Program (ODEP):

  1. Inside the LTO ODLRS Portal, click on ‘ODEP.’

  2. Complete the mandatory five-hour education program.




Online Payment and E-License Issuance

Once both the telemedicine medical examination and the ODEP are successfully completed, motorists can proceed to pay for the corresponding renewal fee online by choosing a preferred payment gateway within the app.



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LTO Chief Mendoza confirmed that a successful online transaction signifies that the driver’s license has been officially renewed. An electronic driver’s license (e-license) is automatically generated and can be immediately viewed within the eGovPH app. This e-license holds the same validity as the physical card, providing instant proof of a renewed license.

For the physical card, applicants will have the convenience of either choosing a courier service for home delivery or picking up their renewed license at a selected LTO district office. This digital transformation by the LTO aims to provide unparalleled convenience, marking a significant stride in the government's push for digitized public services.


More LTO Guides


Here's How You Can Renew Driver's License Thru eGovPH


The popular community Facebook page, Makatizens, is celebrating a significant milestone, having officially reached 25,000 followers.



In appreciation of its growing community, the page has announced a grocery giveaway, offering TWO lucky winners PHP 500 worth of groceries each.

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The initiative aims to give back to the loyal followers who have contributed to the page's success and engagement within the Makati community.


How to Join the Giveaway




1. Go to this LINK and SCREENSHOT the grocery you like to win

2. Like and Share THIS POST (must be a public post)

3. Comment the screenshot and MENTION 2 friends



more comments and mentions will increase a participant's chances of winning



The winners of the Makatizens 25K Followers Grocery Giveaway will be officially announced on July 25, 2025. Residents are encouraged to participate and celebrate this community achievement.

Join the Makatizens 25K Followers Grocery Giveaway


Some areas suspended classes for Friday, July 4, with rain from the low pressure area and the southwest monsoon expected to continue.



This list will be updated once local or national authorities make announcements.


Rainy Day Essentials

Don't let the gloomy weather dampen your spirits! Here are some rainy day essentials to keep you cozy and prepared:


SEE THE LATEST ANNOUNCEMENT HERE

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Calabarzon


Cavite province – preschool to senior high school (public and private).

Earlier declarations by mayors:

  • Cavite City – face-to-face classes in all levels (public and private)
  • Dasmariñas City – face-to-face classes in all levels (public and private)
  • Imus City – all levels (public and private)
  • Naic – face-to-face classes in all levels (public and private)
  • Trece Martires City – all levels (public and private)



Central Luzon


Bataan – all levels (public and private)

Pampanga

  • Candaba – all levels (public and private)
  • Macabebe – face-to-face classes for preschool to senior high school (public and private)
  • Masantol – all levels (public and private)

Tarlac

  • La Paz – all levels (public and private)



Ilocos Region


Ilocos Sur

  • Santiago – all levels (public and private)
  • Tagudin – all levels (public and private)

La Union

  • Bauang – preschool to elementary (public and private)
  • Sudipen – all levels (public and private)

Pangasinan

  • Pozorrubio – all levels (public and private)
  • Umingan – all levels (public and private)
  • Dagupan City – face-to-face classes for preschool to senior high school (public and private)

Refresh this page for updates. 


#WalangPasok: Class Suspensions on Friday, July 4


Aspiring Filipino Coast Guard officers have a unique opportunity to receive world-class training abroad. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has announced a call for qualified applicants to its International Cadetship Program at the Central Police University (CPU) in Taoyuan City, Taiwan, for the Class of 2026 – 2030.



This highly selective program aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directives to strengthen international partnerships, providing exceptional educational opportunities and resources for Filipinos. The scholarship is generously sponsored by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines.



The four-year cadetship at CPU is meticulously designed to equip future PCG officers with specialized knowledge and skills essential for modern maritime law enforcement and safety. It combines rigorous academic programs with practical law enforcement coaching sessions tailored to Coast Guard missions.


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Comprehensive Curriculum

Cadets will undergo formal classroom training in a wide array of subjects, including:

  • Oceanography

  • Nautical Meteorology

  • Marine Physics

  • Marine Environmental Science

  • Ocean Observation and Research

  • United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

  • International Law

  • Navigation (Celestial navigation, geo navigation, regulations for preventing collisions at sea, navigation equipment)

  • Engineering (Auxiliary Engine and Main Engine Generator)

  • Marine Environmental Protection / Oil Spilling, Handling knowledge

  • Criminal Law, Code of Criminal Procedure, Forensic Science

  • Radar Communication (Marine Communication and Marine English)





Exceptional Benefits and Service Obligation

The scholarship offers a comprehensive package, covering tuition and miscellaneous fee waivers, a generous monthly pay and allowances of 17,515 NTD, provision of student uniforms, accommodation, and meals for the entire duration of the cadetship.

Upon successful completion of the four-year program, PCG Cadets will be commissioned as active PCG Officers with the rank of Ensign. In return for this esteemed opportunity, they will render a minimum of eight (8) years of service obligation to the PCG.



Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet stringent qualifications:

  • Must be a natural-born Filipino Citizen.

  • Must be 17 years old but not more than 22 by July 26, 2026.

  • Minimum height of 5'4" for males and 5'2" for females.

  • Must be medically and physically fit for swimming and scuba diving.

  • Must pass the PCG Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and Swimming Qualification Test (SQT). (CPU provides intensive swimming training and daily morning swimming exercise).

  • Must be at least a High School Graduate with a General Weighted Average (GWA) of 90% and above, and no grades lower than 85%.

  • Must be single and have no legal dependents.

  • Must have no derogatory records or legal impediments.

  • Must possess excellent command of the English language and communication skills.

  • Applicants will undergo a six-month Mandarin Language Course in Taoyuan City prior to the Cadetship Program at CPU.

  • Must pass the American Language Course Placement Test (ALCPT) with a score of 85%, to be administered at Bachrach Building II, CG-12 Office, 23rd Street, Port Area, Manila, after passing the PFT and SQT.





Application Deadline and Submission

The deadline for application is 11 July 2025 (Friday). Interested applicants must ensure they have a stable internet connection to access the required forms and information.

Required documents include:

  • Accomplished Application Form

  • Personal Information Sheet

  • Personal History Sheet (PHS)

  • Scanned copy of High School Report Card or College Transcript of Records (Translated in English)

  • Scanned copy of PSA Birth Certificate

  • Colored Whole-Body Picture (white background) wearing white t-shirt and maong pants

  • Essay stating reasons for joining the program and how the 4-year CPU experience can help the PCG, along with expectations for a Coast Guard career.

Application forms and additional details can be downloaded from the official PCG website:




Timeline




For further inquiries, applicants may coordinate with Lieutenant Junior Grade Veronica D. Pasiwat PCG, Chief, Asian and Other Countries Education and Training Division, or PO3 Annaliza P. Pineda PCG, Petty-Officer-in-Charge, Asian and Other Countries Education and Training Division, at the Office of the Deputy Chief of Coast Guard Staff for Education and Training (CG-12) located at Bachrach Building II, 23rd Street, Port Area, Manila.

Contact details:

  • Email: cg12.cadetship@gmail.com / cg12.aocetd@gmail.com

  • Telephone: (02) 8527 8481 local 6431

  • Mobile: +639 1524 135 83


Philippine Coast Guard Opens Applications for Prestigious International Cadetship Program in Taiwan


Shoppers and visitors to some of Makati's busiest commercial hubs will soon see an adjustment in parking fees. Ayala Malls has announced new parking rates for Glorietta, Greenbelt, and One Ayala, set to take effect starting July 16, 2025.



The advisory, released by Ayala Malls, outlines a slight increase in the daily parking charges across these prime destinations in the Ayala Center complex.

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Under the new structure, the first two hours of parking will now be charged at PHP 60.00. For every succeeding hour thereafter, a rate of PHP 20.00 will apply.




The updated rates aim to manage parking availability and support ongoing operational enhancements within the popular malls.


Patrons are advised to take note of the new fee structure when planning their visits to Glorietta, Greenbelt, and One Ayala starting mid-July.




Ayala Malls expressed gratitude for customers' understanding and continued patronage as these adjustments are implemented.


More Parking Guides and Updates . . .


Ayala Malls Glorietta, Greenbelt, and One Ayala Announce New Parking Rates


Public school teachers across the Philippines are set to receive significant salary increases over the next three years, as the government implements the fourth tranche of its ongoing compensation adjustment program for civil servants.



The new salary standardization schedule, spanning from 2024 to 2027, promises a progressive rise in wages, aiming to further professionalize and adequately compensate educators for their invaluable service.

The salary adjustments cover various teaching positions, from entry-level Teacher I roles to the highly specialized Master Teacher IV. These increases are part of a multi-year program designed to uplift the economic welfare of government employees, including the dedicated men and women in the education sector.

If you think that this is the career you wanted, here's a Complete Guide to Become a Public School Teacher in the Philippines 

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Public Teacher Salary Grades: 2024-2027 Tranches

The following table outlines the phased increases for different teaching positions:




Notable Increases

A Teacher I, for instance, will see their monthly salary grow from P28,512 in 2024 to P33,387 by 2027, representing a cumulative increase of nearly P5,000. Similarly, a Master Teacher IV, the highest teaching position listed, will experience a substantial rise from P67,005 in 2024 to P76,594 by 2027, an increase of over P9,500.



These adjustments are a testament to the government's recognition of teachers as pillars of national development. The consistent salary hikes are expected to not only improve the living standards of educators but also attract more talent to the profession, encouraging long-term commitment and reducing brain drain within the education sector.



The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) implements these salary modifications as part of broader efforts to standardize compensation across all government agencies, ensuring equity and competitiveness in public service. Teachers' unions and advocacy groups have long pushed for better compensation, viewing these sustained increases as a positive step towards fully valuing the immense contributions of educators to the nation's youth and future.


Read Next . . .


Government Rolls Out 4th Tranche of Public Teacher Salary Adjustments (2024-2027)


Navigating Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) can feel like exploring four separate airports. That's because NAIA's four terminals aren't connected by walkways, meaning you'll need a ride to get from one flight to your next. But don't sweat it! There are easy ways to move between Terminals 1 to 4, including a fantastic free shuttle service.



Free Ride: NAIA Inter-Terminal Shuttle Bus

The good news is, you don't always need to hail a taxi or book a Grab. The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), now under the management of the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC) since September 2024, provides a free shuttle bus service that runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


These buses are air-conditioned and have plenty of space for your luggage, ensuring a comfortable ride between any of the terminals – whether you're hopping from T1 to T3, T4 to T2, or any other combination.

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While this shuttle service used to run about once an hour, NNIC has been working to improve passenger mobility. You might find the buses are now more frequent than before, with aims to cut down those waiting times. Still, it's always smart to allot ample time for transfers – sometimes you just miss a bus!




How to Hop On

It’s pretty straightforward! Just show your ticket or boarding pass to the driver. The only catch is your onward flight needs to be within the next 24 hours.


Where to Catch Your Shuttle

Knowing where to wait is half the battle. Here's where you'll find the free shuttle bus at each terminal's arrival curbside:

  • Terminal 1: Keep an eye out for a huge sign that says "AIRPORT SHUTTLE / TRANSFER SERVICE" at the arrival curbside. You can't miss it!

  • Terminal 2: Head to the arrival curbside, right next to pick-up bay 19.

  • Terminal 3: This one takes a little walk. After you exit the baggage claim area, turn left and stroll towards the very end of the terminal. Once you reach the far end, turn left again. You should then spot the sign for the "Terminal Transfer Bus" or "For passengers with connecting flights to Terminal 1, 2, and 4."



Airline Promo Fares

If you are looking for cheap flights in the Philippines, see airlines listed below or view all promo fares:


Need to Dash? Your Paid Alternatives

Sometimes, time is of the essence, or you just prefer a more private ride. In those cases, you have reliable alternatives:

  • Taxis: You'll find accredited taxi stands outside all terminals. These can be a quick option, but always make sure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.

  • Grab (Ride-Hailing Services): Grab is a game-changer for terminal transfers. Simply book a car through the Grab app, and it's often a very efficient choice, especially if you're loaded with luggage.

  • NAIA Terminal 3: Grab pickups are centralized at the Multi-Level Parking (MLP) Level A. Just follow the signs and coordinate with your driver via the app.

  • NAIA Terminal 1 & 2: The app will guide you to specific, designated bays for Grab pickups.

The good news is, a newly constructed expressway connects most of the NAIA terminals, meaning travel time between them via car or Grab is much shorter than it used to be.



Moving between NAIA's terminals doesn't have to be a headache. With the free shuttle service and convenient ride-hailing options, you can navigate your way to your next flight with less stress. Just remember to always factor in ample time for transfers, and you'll be well on your way!


Read More NAIA Guides


Here's Where and How to Avail NAIA Free Inter-Terminal Shuttle Bus

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