MAE MARTINEZ, a call center agent, takes the MRT-3 (Metro Rail Transit Line-3) everyday from Quezon City to Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, a daily journey that she describes as a test of patience and resilience.
Arriving at the MRT station, she is oftentimes greeted by a long line of commuters – some are going through security checks for their turn to buy Beep cards. She feels like everyone in the city has the same destination in mind.
When the train arrives, a wave of people surges forward. Mae gets squeezed into the carriage, shoulder to shoulder with strangers. It’s a cramped environment, with the air thick and warm. She finds a small grip on the overhead rail and tries to focus on her breathing as the train lurches forward.
In a move that promises to make commuting a more productive and convenient experience, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) have announced the planned rollout of fast and free Wi-Fi in all MRT-3 stations.
The initiative, aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to improve daily public transportation, aims to modernize the MRT-3 by introducing digital solutions including contactless payments and AI-assisted security checks. But for many train commuters, it’s the free internet access that’s generating the most buzz.
Mae said the move is a welcome change.
“Mas ok, para habang nag-aantay ang pasahero ng sasakyang tren, makakapag-browse ng libre sa cellphone,” she shared, noting how idle minutes on the platform could now be spent catching up on messages, news, or social media.
(It’s better than what it used to be, because while passengers are waiting for the train, they can browse on their phones for free.)
During a recent inspection ride from North Avenue to Santolan-Annapolis stations, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda and DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon personally listened to commuters and discussed practical solutions for improving connectivity in transit zones. Aguda emphasized that the new Wi-Fi service won’t just be available—it will be strong enough to handle peak-hour demand.
“Para good vibes tayong lahat—habang naghihintay ka ng tren na hindi na rin masyadong mahaba, may free Wi-Fi ka na,” he said, highlighting how digital access can uplift the mood and productivity of passengers.
(So everyone’s in a good mood—while you’re waiting for the train, which doesn’t take too long anymore, you already have free Wi-Fi.)
Behind the scenes, the DICT is partnering with telecom giants to upgrade fiber infrastructure and boost signal strength across the MRT-3 corridor. The first wave of improvements is expected to go live within the next month, with more enhancements rolling out in the months to follow.
The project also garnered support from Isagani Estores, a Makati resident who commutes to Quezon City daily for work. “OK yun, pero sana mabilis din kasi saglit lang naman biyahe namin sa tren, para ma-maximize namin ang gamit,” he noted, pointing out that internet speed will be key to making the service truly useful.
(That’s good, but I hope it’s fast, too, since our train ride is short, so we can really make the most of it.)
Aside from MRT-3 improvements, plans are in motion to extend these upgrades to other major elevated train systems – LRT-1 and LRT-2. Loida Reyes, who travels daily from Recto to Cubao for her job at a fast food restaurant, is very eager about the planned expansion. “Yes, mabuti yang ganyang plano, pero sana magkaroon na agad, para makatulong din sa commuters,” she said.
(Yes, that kind of plan is good, but I hope it gets implemented soon so it can help commuters as well.)
This initiative is part of DICT’s broader “Digital Bayanihan” campaign, which aims to bring tech-driven improvements to everyday life. From contactless fare systems to intelligent security checks, the goal is to create a commuting experience that’s not just faster—but more dignified and inclusive.
MRT-3 is now the launchpad for a smarter, more connected commute, with the goal of turning idle moments into meaningful ones and daily train rides into seamless, productive experiences. One station at a time, the future of Filipino commuting is taking shape. (AVS/PIA-NCR)
