President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. wants to raise the train fare discount for those aged 60 years old and above from 20 percent to 50 percent, matching the discount rate given to students.

In the latest podcast interview aired on Friday, President Marcos said other countries give fare discounts to senior citizens and students.

“These are the sectors of the society na hirap sa cash. Walang pera ang estudyante usually. ‘Yung mga matatanda, kakaunti lang ang hawak nilang pera. So, bakit pa natin pababayarin? They already served the country, na nagtrabaho sila ng buong buhay nila eh dapat naman bigyan natin ng kaunting benepisyo ‘yun ‘di ba?” the President said.

Upon the directive of President Marcos, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) increased the discount for all students from 20 percent to 50 percent for LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3 beginning June 20.

The increased student discount is available to all students, including those enrolled in postgraduate studies and law school programs, according to the DOTR. They only need to show their identification cards for the current school year.

The discount is applicable every day, including weekends and holidays. | PND