Uncover the exclusive benefits of owning a credit card

Cash back rewards, no annual fee for the first year, incentives for accumulating air miles and many more. Unlock special perks when using credit cards!

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UnionBank

UnionBank Platinum Visa Card

UnionBank Platinum Visa Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
3000
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
600000
  • Access unlimited pre-departure lounges
  • FREE travel insurance
  • Dedicated Concierge service available 24/7
  • Enjoy discounts, perks and freebies nationwide
  • Ideal for leisure or business travelers

Metrobank

Metrobank Platinum Mastercard

Metrobank Platinum Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
5000
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
700000
  • Exclusive welcome gift for New-to-Metrobank credit cardholders
  • Earn rewards points effortlessly: 1 point for every ₱20 spent
  • Enjoy exclusive discounts of up to 50% on premium dining
  • Get peace of mind with eCommerce purchase protection
  • No annual fee for your first supplementary card
  • Ideal for those seeking effortless rewards on their everyday purchases

Security Bank

Security Bank Gold Mastercard

Security Bank Gold Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
2500
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
480000
  • Earn 1 never-expiring point for every ₱20 spent
  • Exclusive discounts at your favorite shops and restaurants
  • Waived annual fee for the first year
  • Access to local airport lounges at preferential rates
  • Ideal for frequent shoppers and reward seekers

UnionBank

UnionBank Cash Back Visa Platinum Credit Card

UnionBank Cash Back Visa Platinum Credit Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
4500
Age requirement
21 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • Earn up to 6% never-expiring cash back on groceries
  • Earn up to 2% never-expiring cash back on Meralco bill payments
  • Earn up to 0.20% never-expiring cash back on all other purchases
  • Save us much as ₱15,000 per year
  • Ideal for individuals looking to maximize savings on everyday essentials

UnionBank

Cebu Pacific Gold Credit Card

Cebu Pacific Gold Credit Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
3000
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
360000
  • Earn 1 Go reward point for every ₱200 spend
  • Earn 1 Go reward point for every ₱100 spend at Cebu Pacific
  • Exclusive access to Cebu Pacific seat sales
  • Get lost in the insane amount of discounts, perks and freebies in restaurants, shopping, leisure and service outlets nationwide
  • Have your outstanding credit card balance covered up to ₱2.5 Million
  • Ideal for the Insta-Traveller

UnionBank

UnionBank Lazada Credit Card

UnionBank Lazada Credit Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
3000
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
360000
  • Earn 6x Lazada Credits for every ₱200 spent on Lazada
  • Get 1 Lazada Credit per ₱200 spent elsewhere
  • FREE ₱5,000 Lazada Credits for new cardholders
  • Enjoy exclusive discounts and free shipping vouchers
  • Waived first-year annual fee
  • Ideal for frequent online shoppers

UnionBank

UnionBank Miles+ Visa Signature Credit Card

UnionBank Miles+ Visa Signature Credit Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
5000
Age requirement
21 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
360000
  • Earn 1 never-expiring mile for every ₱30 spend
  • Convert miles to airline miles or cash credits
  • Enjoy VIP lounge access with FREE DragonPass Membership
  • Up to ₱1 million travel insurance
  • Complimentary 30-Day Purchase Protection
  • Virtual Card for Virtual Shopping - Activate instantly upon approval
  • Ideal for frequent travelers

UnionBank

UnionBank Rewards Visa Platinum

UnionBank Rewards Visa Platinum
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
2500
Age requirement
21 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • Earn 3x Non-Expiring Reward Points when you shop and dine, both here and abroad
  • Earn 1 Non-Expiring Reward Point for every ₱30 spent
  • Redeem for Cash Credits, Merchandise, Gadgets, Points Transfers and More
  • Ideal for individuals who enjoy earning rewards effortlessly

Metrobank

Metrobank Titanium Mastercard

Metrobank Titanium Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
2500
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • No annual fees with a min. annual spend of ₱180K for new cardholders who apply until Aug 31, 2024
  • Earn 2x points on online, department store and dining transactions​
  • Enjoy 1 never-expiring point for every ₱20 spent
  • Experience exclusive benefits from Metrobank
  • Ideal for shoppers focused on essential spending

Metrobank

Metrobank World Mastercard

Metrobank World Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
6000
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
1500000
  • Exclusive welcome gift for New-to-Metrobank credit cardholders until July 31, 2024
  • 1 air mile per ₱17 foreign currency spend
  • 1 air mile per ₱50 spend on other categories
  • Up to 50% OFF on deals here and abroad
  • Complimentary two global lounge passes per year
  • FREE FOR LIFE annual fee for two supplementary cards
  • Ideal for world explorers

Metrobank

Metrobank Rewards Plus Card

Metrobank Rewards Plus Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
2500
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • Double rewards points on ALL online, gadget, and telco spend
  • Earn 1 never-expiring point for every ₱20 spend
  • Ideal for online shoppers and tech enthusiasts

Security Bank

Security Bank Platinum Mastercard

Security Bank Platinum Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
4000
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
780000
  • Waived annual fee for the first year
  • Earn 2 never-expiring point for every ₱20 spent
  • Access over 1,300 lounges across 500+ airports worldwide
  • Free travel insurance when booking airline tickets
  • Discounts at favorite shops and restaurants
  • Receive up to $200 coverage when you shop online
  • Ideal for frequent travelers and international shoppers

UnionBank

UnionBank Platinum Mastercard

UnionBank Platinum Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
3000
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
600000
  • Earn 1% cashback on every purchase
  • FREE airport lounge access
  • Accepted Globally at over 30 million establishments and ATMs
  • Ideal for value-driven cardholders

Metrobank

Metrobank M Free Card

Metrobank M Free Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
0
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
867000
  • NO annual fee for life
  • NO minimum spent requirement
  • Worldwide acceptance 0% installment programs
  • Exclusive Promotions and Offers
  • Ideal for those looking to maximize financial control and convenience

BPI

BPI Gold Rewards Card

BPI Gold Rewards Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
2250
Age requirement
21 - 60 y.o
Minimum income
480000
  • Earn 1 reward point for every ₱35 spend
  • Avail flexible installment plans with terms up to 36 months
  • Free travel insurance up to ₱10 million
  • Enjoy endless rewards and perks all year round
  • Ideal for cardholders looking for premium benefits

EastWest Bank

EastWest Visa Gold

EastWest Visa Gold
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
2500
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
480000
  • Earn 1 reward point for every ₱100 spent
  • Travel with confidence thanks to complimentary Travel Accident and Inconvenience Insurance
  • Use your EastWest Visa Gold globally, including in the Philippines
  • Benefit from a variety of exclusive privileges for shopping, dining, and traveling
  • Ideal for those who prioritize luxury and rewards

RCBC

RCBC Visa Platinum

RCBC Visa Platinum
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
5000
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
1200000
  • Earn one Preferred Air Mile for as low as ₱25 per spend
  • Convert your AIRMILES into mileage point at 1:1 rate
  • Access to world-class airport lounge
  • Up to ₱5 Million Travel Insurance Coverage and other travel benefits
  • Up to 100% temporary increase in credit limit during travel period
  • Ideal for frequent travelers

RCBC

RCBC Gold Mastercard

RCBC Gold Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
3000
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
600000
  • Earn flexible non-expiring Rewards Points from all your purchases
  • Enjoy complimentary travel insurance and purchase protection on all your trips
  • Free budget monitoring tools to help organize your finances
  • Convenient and rewarding bills payment
  • Ideal for savvy spenders and travelers

Metrobank

Metrobank Cashback Card

Metrobank Cashback Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
3500
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • Earn 5% cash rebates on groceries, telecom, school, and bookstore spend
  • Receive 0.2% cash rebate on all other purchases
  • Save up to ₱12,000 annually with rebates
  • No annual fee for the first year
  • Ideal for shoppers maximizing savings on everyday essentials

BPI

BPI Rewards Card

BPI Rewards Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
1550
Age requirement
21 - 60 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • Earn 1 reward point for every ₱35 spend
  • Flexible installment plans with terms up to 36 months
  • Free travel insurance wherever you go up to ₱2 million
  • Enjoy a variety of year-round discounts and perks
  • Ideal for shoppers looking for rewards

Metrobank

Metrobank Travel Platinum Card

Metrobank Travel Platinum Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
5000
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
700000
  • Exclusive welcome gift for New-to-Metrobank credit cardholders
  • Earn miles quickly with the Metrobank Travel Platinum Card
  • Receive 1 mile for every ₱17 spent on airlines, hotels, and foreign currency transactions
  • Earn 1 mile for every ₱50 spent on other categories
  • Triple rewards on local airlines, hotel accomodation and international spending
  • Enjoy a FREE first supplementary credit card
  • Ideal for frequent travelers looking to maximize their rewards

PSBank

PSBank Credit Mastercard

PSBank Credit Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
0
Age requirement
18 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
350000
Never pay annual fees with the PSBank Credit Mastercard Spread payments at 0% interest across various merchant partners Consolidate and manage debts with low-interest balance transfer options Instant cash access through ATMs worldwide for emergencies Perfect for those who value financial flexibility and savings on annual fees

UnionBank

UnionBank Miles+ World Mastercard

UnionBank Miles+ World Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
5000
Age requirement
21 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
360000
  • Earn 1 never-expiring mile for every ₱30 spend
  • Convert miles to airline miles or cash credits
  • Enjoy VIP lounge access with FREE DragonPass Membership
  • Up to ₱1 million travel insurance
  • Complimentary 30-Day Purchase Protection
  • Virtual Card for Virtual Shopping - Activate instantly upon approval
  • Ideal for frequent travelers

UnionBank

UnionBank Rewards Platinum Mastercard

UnionBank Rewards Platinum Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
2500
Age requirement
21 - 70 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • Earn 3x Non-Expiring Reward Points when you shop and dine, both here and abroad
  • Earn 1 Non-Expiring Reward Point for every ₱30 spent
  • Redeem for Cash Credits, Merchandise, Gadgets, Points Transfers and More
  • Ideal for individuals who enjoy earning rewards effortlessly

BPI

BPI Signature Card

BPI Signature Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
5500
Age requirement
21 - 60 y.o
Minimum income
1200000
  • Earn 2 BPI points for every ₱20 spend
  • Get up to ₱20 million free travel accident and inconvenience benefit
  • Enjoy complimentary access for you and one guest at PAGSS international lounges in NAIA 1 and NAIA 3
  • Get exclusive 50% off deals on dining, hotels, resorts, fitness studios, and wellness centers, all year round
  • Ideal for frequent travelers

EastWest Bank

EastWest Visa Platinum

EastWest Visa Platinum
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
3600
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
1000000
  • Earn up to 8.58% cash rewards for your straight charges at department stores, restaurants, food delivery apps, travel, fuel, and utilities spend
  • Get 0.3% cash rewards when you shop at other establishments
  • Get up to ₱20 million free Travel Accident and Inconvenience Insurance Coverage
  • Access a dedicated concierge to help fulfill your requests
  • Enjoy premium lifestyle perks and offers that suit your taste
  • Ideal for cardholders who like to shop and dine

RCBC

RCBC Flex Gold Visa

RCBC Flex Gold Visa
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
3000
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
600000
  • 2X Rewards points on three preferred categories
  • Change your preferred categories once every billing cycle
  • Flexible Rewards redemption options (shopping vouchers, cash rebates and more)
  • Free Travel Insurance & Purchase Protection
  • Get access to the Marhaba/Skyview Airport Lounge
  • Free budget monitoring tools
  • Ideal for young professionals

BPI

Petron BPI Card

Petron BPI Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
1550
Age requirement
21 - 60 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • Earn 3% rebate on fuel
  • Free ₱200 fuel voucher for first-time cardholders
  • Avail of flexible and convenient installment plans
  • Convert your credit limit to cash for emergencies
  • Ideal for car owners

RCBC

RCBC Classic Mastercard

RCBC Classic Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
1500
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • Earn flexible non-expiring Rewards Points from all your purchases
  • Convert your points to air miles and other rewards
  • Free budget monitoring tools
  • Convert straight purchases made anywhere to installment
  • Free travel insurance and purchase protection
  • No Annual Fee For Life
  • Ideal for the young professionals enjoying financial independence

Security Bank

Security Bank World Mastercard

Security Bank World Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
5000
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
3000000
  • Earn 3x points for every ₱20 spent
  • Access over 1,300 lounges across 500+ airports worldwide
  • Receive free travel insurance coverage up to ₱10 million
  • Receive up to $200 coverage when you shop online
  • Discover exclusive dining, spa and retail offers from select airport merchants
  • Ideal for travelers seeking extensive travel perks

BPI

BPI Platinum Rewards Card

BPI Platinum Rewards Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
4000
Age requirement
21 - 60 y.o
Minimum income
1000000
  • Earn 2 BPI points for every ₱30 local spend
  • Earn 2 BPI points for every ₱20 foreign currency spend online and abroad
  • Convert straight payments on airfares to installment with 0% interest
  • Get up to ₱10 million free travel insurance
  • Get up to 180 days of purchase protection insurance
  • Enjoy complimentary airport lounge passes in 1,300+ lounges worldwide
  • Ideal for frequent travelers looking for premium benefits

BPI

BPI Edge Card

BPI Edge Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
1320
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • Earn one 1 rewards point for every ₱50 spend
  • Enjoy flexible installment plans and payment options
  • One of the lowest forex conversion rates at 1.85%
  • Enjoy deals and discounts all year round from BPI
  • Ideal for young professionals who want to experience more out of life

EastWest Bank

EastWest Dolce Vita Titanium Mastercard

EastWest Dolce Vita Titanium Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
2000
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
300000
  • Enjoy shopping, dining, and relaxing with special deals and discounts from your favorite places
  • Get exclusive perks and privileges at beauty, health, and wellness retailers
  • Earn 1 Charm for every ₱100 spent
  • Redeem accumulated Charms for rewards and vouchers
  • Ideal for frequent lifestyle shoppers

BPI

BPI Amore Platinum Cashback Card

BPI Amore Platinum Cashback Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
5000
Age requirement
21 - 60 y.o
Minimum income
1000000
  • Get 4% cash back on dining and online delivery spend
  • Get 1% cash back on supermarkets and department store spend
  • Earn up to 0.3% cash back on other international and local retail spend
  • Enjoy exclusive perks and deals at any Ayala Malls nationwide
  • One of the lowest forex conversion rates at 1.85%
  • Ideal for people who enjoy shopping while saving

RCBC

RCBC JCB Platinum

RCBC JCB Platinum
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
3600
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
1200000
  • Earn reward points for as low as ₱25 per purchase
  • Complimentary access to over 50 airport lounges
  • Free travel insurance of up to ₱1 million for every trip
  • Access to 24/7 Concierge Desk for your reservations and card-related emergencies
  • No Annual Fee For Life
  • Ideal for local and international travelers

BPI

BPI Amore Cashback Card

BPI Amore Cashback Card
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
2050
Age requirement
21 - 60 y.o
Minimum income
180000
  • Get up to 4% cash back on supermarkets and department store spend
  • Get up to 1% cash back on drugstore and bills payment spend
  • Earn up to 0.3% cash back on all other local retail spend
  • Enjoy unlimited access exclusive customer and family lounges in Ayala Malls
  • One of the lowest forex conversion rates at 1.85%
  • Ideal for cardholders who love saving while shopping

EastWest Bank

EastWest Platinum Mastercard

EastWest Platinum Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
0
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
1800000
  • Enjoy lifetime free membership for both principal and supplementary cards
  • Receive a complimentary EastWest Platinum Virtual Card for secure online shopping
  • Travel without worries with free Travel Accident & Inconvenience Insurance
  • Access VIP airport lounges worldwide with your free Priority Pass membership
  • Perfect for those who love to travel and value luxury

EastWest Bank

EastWest Gold Mastercard

EastWest Gold Mastercard
Interest rate
3%
Annual fee
2500
Age requirement
21 - 65 y.o
Minimum income
480000
  • Earn 1 reward point for every ₱100 spent
  • Travel with confidence thanks to free Travel Accident and Inconvenience Insurance
  • Use your EastWest Gold Mastercard both locally and internationally
  • Enjoy numerous privileges for shopping, dining, and traveling
  • Ideal for cardholders who value luxury and rewards

How can I be eligible for a credit card in the Philippines?

Age criteria

Applicants must be from 21 to 64 years old

Income requirements

Meeting the specific income criteria is essential, as the minimum gross annual income varies based on the lender's policies.

Employment status

Applicants should have a job with a monthly stable income in order to apply for a credit card

Residency

Eligible applicants should either be Filipino residents or local resident foreigners with a valid Philippine billing address.

Art of girl receiving lots of letters

Required documents

  • Government-issued ID

Optional documents:

  • Proof of income (Payslip, bank statement)
  • An employment contract

Discover a credit card tailored to
your needs in just a few easy steps!

1

Compare credit card options



Simplify your credit card search by using Finmerkado to compare various options from different providers and products.

2

Choose your ideal match

Review the eligibility criteria for a credit card. Select the credit card that aligns with your preferences and needs.

3

Apply online

Complete the credit card application form provided by your chosen card provider. Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information.

4

Complete your application

Provide essential information such as your age, income and employment.

5

Receive your credit card

If your application is approved, expect notification, and your credit card could be settled in around a week or more. Remember to pay the bill on time.

Art depicting Girl holding cubes with numbered steps on them

What is the best credit card in the Philippines?

Credit cards, a high-powered card that almost all adults own. This card empowers users with the convenience of cashless transactions, high security along with appealing benefits. In the ever-evolving landscape of the financial industry, Filipinos are actively participating as the use of credit cards in the country develops, even though they are outnumbered by debit cards. However, with a multitude of credit card options available, finding the right one can be something that makes many people wonder. By exploring this comprehensive guide, you can explore the types of credit cards, how credit cards work in the Philippines, calculating monthly payments, discuss the main requirements for obtaining a credit card, weigh the profitability of taking a loan versus a credit card, and reveal which banks make it easier to secure a credit card. Whether you're a first-time credit card applicant or looking to switch to a better card, you should keep an eye on this article to make an informed decision. 

What are the types of credit cards?

In the Philippines, there are many types of credit cards, each designed to cater to the distinct requirements of users. Some cards are tailored for savvy shoppers, weaving seamless connections with e-commerce platforms to deliver convenience with every click. Others shine brightest when you book a flight or a hotel room. Let's take a closer look at the top credit cards in the Philippines:

Cashback and reward credit card

Cashback cards bring many benefits to users by allowing them to receive money back after spending. As we know the challenging economic situation, the importance of savings even permeates our everyday expenses. Some credit cards also have generous cashback programs in specific categories in terms of shopping or medical spending. Take the Security Bank's Cashback Platinum Mastercard as an instance, card owners can savor the delight of a 5% cashback on their grocery bills, or a 2% cashback on indulgent dining experiences.

Furthermore, some credit cards also integrate the feature of adding bonus points based on your spending habits. The accumulation of these bonus points corresponds directly to the amount spent on each transaction; in essence, the more you spend, the more substantial your bonus points become. Users can convert reward points into cash and use them directly on credit card spending when making consumer purchases or traveling. One of the top credit cards for this type of card in the Philippines is the Metrobank Reward Plus card, which offers a delightful double-point boost for every PHP 20 spent on utilities, groceries, and fuel.

Co-branded credit card

Co-branded credit cards have become a favored choice offering a unique fusion of banks and other businesses across diverse industries, with the purpose of giving compelling benefits for cardholders. Becoming the card owner, you can access exclusive membership privileges at a wide spectrum of affiliated businesses. For instance, with RCBC Mango Mastercard, card owners will get 0% installment of up to 6 months at Mango stores, or exclusive access to Mango VIP Sale events. Another example can be stated as Metrobank Toyota Mastercard when the card owners will get a 10% discount on accessories and services at all Toyota dealers. 

Secured credit card

Secured credit card is a type of card in which the cardholder provides a deposit as a safeguard for their credit limit. This particular card enjoys popularity among freelancers for its minimal document requirements and straightforward application process. You just need to deposit funds into your preferred bank account and start registering to open a card.

Supplementary card

Supplementary cards are a form of expansion card, allowing secondary cards to enjoy the same privileges as the main one. This card variant is tailor-made for family members and close relatives, allowing them to share a common credit limit, receive cashback incentives or travel privileges such as accumulating airline miles or experiencing at airport lounges. 

Travel credit card

Travel credit card is often referred to as an airline miles accumulation card. With this card in hand, you'll embark on a journey to accumulate flight miles, exchange reward points to receive perks when traveling, staying at hotels, checked baggage allowance or priority sitting in business class lounges. If your heart beats for adventure, or your profession entails traversing the globe, it might be time to consider the benefits of adding this type of card to your financial portfolio.

What are the main requirements to get a credit card?

  • Age criteria: Applicants must be from 21 to 64 years old
  • Income requirements: Meeting the specific income criteria is essential, as the minimum gross annual income varies based on the lender's policies.
  • Employment status: Applicants should have a job with a monthly stable income in order to repay the loan.
  • Residency: Eligible applicants should either be Filipino residents or local resident foreigners with a valid Philippine billing address.
  • Required documents: 
  • Government-issued ID
  • Optional documents: Proof of income (Payslip, bank statement); An employment contract
  • Have a mobile phone number: Hold a valid TIN, SSS, GSIS, or UMID number in order to verify your identity and financial condition.
  • Credit history: While some banks still offer credit cards to individuals without credit history, having a strong credit score can enhance your likelihood of approval.

How does credit card work in the Philippines?

Credit cards play a pivotal role in the modern shopping area, whether it's online shopping or brick-and-mortar stores. Let's find out how credit cards work in the Philippines, demystifying the intricacies of this financial tool!

In-store transactions

When shopping directly at the store, instead of using cash, users can pay with a credit card. Today, many card issuers have established partnerships with retailers, providing card swiping machines, making it convenient for users to shop. Simply inform the cashier of your payment choice, and they will swipe your credit card, enter the amount, and complete the payment.

When making in-store purchases, instead of using cash, users prefer credit cards. Recently, numerous card issuers have established partnerships with retailers to ensure seamless shopping experiences. They provide swiping machines at checkout counters, making it exceptionally convenient for shoppers. Simply inform the cashier of your payment choice, and they will swipe your credit card, enter the amount, and complete the payment.

Online shopping

Similar to purchasing at a brick-and-mortar store by presenting your payment method,  when shopping online or on e-commerce platforms, users can set up their payment using a credit card. Once you've picked out your desired item, all you need is to go to the payment step and choose to pay by credit card.

Post-purchase convenience

This is a very popular feature of credit cards: installment conversion. When a transaction meets the requirements, users can directly convert that transaction into installments with 0% interest for a term of 3 to 12 months. This form is suitable when you do not have enough financial resources to pay all the payments at once and divide the amount to pay over several months.

One widely acclaimed feature of credit cards is the installment conversion option. When a transaction aligns with the specified criteria, users can directly convert that transaction into installments with 0% interest for a term of 3 to 12 months. This is an ideal choice when you do not have enough financial resources to pay all the payments at once, allowing you to comfortably distribute the cost over several manageable months.

What is more profitable to take, a loan or a credit card?

Borrowing money or using a credit card both entail borrowing funds from a financial institution to cover your expenses. When faced with the choice between borrowing money and wielding a credit card, it's essential to note the pros and cons of these financial avenues and conduct a thorough comparison before making your financial decision!

Credit card

Advantages:

Diverse types of cards: Credit cards present many options for consumers, ranging from cashback and reward credit card to co-branded credit card cards, along with the option to explore additional card offerings.

Enjoy a 45-day interest-free window: Currently, most credit cards apply an interest-free policy up to 45 days, offering card holders the freedom to make purchases within this timeframe without the looming concern of interest accrual.

Many accompanying benefits: Cash back rewards, no annual fee for the first year, incentives for accumulating air miles, discounts when shopping, and even the prospect of card upgrades for travel flying are the benefits users enjoy when using credit cards.

Disadvantages

Higher interest rates: Credit cards often have higher interest rates than personal loans. If you don't pay your entire monthly balance, you will have to pay high interest rates on the remaining amount. If you don't manage debt carefully, it can lead to debt accumulating. 

Costs and expenses: Credit cards can come with a variety of fees, including annual fees, overage fees, and fees related to international transactions. Failing to handle these costs can create financial pressure if not managed carefully.

Personal loan

Advantages

Streamlined application process: To apply for personal loan in the Philippines, borrowers only need to meet some basic requirements, in terms of age criteria, income requirements, Government-issued ID, residency and a mobile phone number.

No collateral required: Almost all personal loans are unsecured, or, negating the necessity for borrowers to furnish collateral, such as real estate or vehicles.

Fast approval: Many banks and financial institutions in the Philippines offer quick approval processes for personal loans. This can be especially advantageous when borrowers need funds urgently, in terms of medical emergencies or unexpected expenses.

Disadvantages

Lack of flexibility: When you secure a personal loan and receive the lump sum, you cannot borrow more until the loan is paid off.

Interest on the entire amount: With a personal loan, you pay interest on the entire loan amount from the beginning, while with a credit card, you only pay interest on the outstanding balance.

Example of calculation

To get a deeper understanding of how credit cards work in the Philippines, let's delve into a practical scenario featuring a credit card with a limit of PHP 100,000. This card has a monthly interest rate of 3.5% and the cardholder must pay a minimum of 5% for outstanding balance each month.

In one month, this cardholder made the following transactions:

Supermarket fee: PHP 7,000

Shopping amount: PHP 4,000

Meals out: PHP 3,500

Travel allowance: PHP 5,000

Total amount incurred during the month: PHP 19,500

Here is how to calculate the minimum amount that this cardholder must pay monthly:

Minimum payment: 5% of PHP 19,500 = PHP 975

Interest charges: (3.5% of PHP 19,500) = PHP 682,5

From there we have the minimum amount to pay (interest included): PHP 975 (minimum payment) + PHP 682.5 (interest charges) = PHP 1,657.5

Take into account that paying only the minimum amount will result in a balance carried forward, causing ongoing interest to accumulate on the remaining amount. To avoid unnecessary interest charges,  it's wise counsel to pay the full outstanding balance each month.

What is the easiest bank to issue a credit card?

To find a precise credit card provider, the first and foremost question that users consider would be "Is this bank easy to apply for?". In addition to the basic requirements set when applying for personal loans in the Philippines, in terms of age, identification documents, phone number, several banks need to know more about employment situations, income or even credit history of the user to consider whether to approve the credit card. Below are the top banks that would be easier to open a credit card in the Philippines:

Metrobank: Metrobank stands out as a leading choice to open credit cards in the Philippines. The eligibility criteria are refreshingly straightforward, you only need to meet the following conditions: Age from 18 to 70 years old, proof of identification, have a landline number, valid TIN, SSS, or GSIS number and a minimum monthly income of PHP 350,000. 

Robinson Bank: With a streamlined process and simplified documents, opening a credit card at Robinson Bank has never been simpler. Alongside the standard prerequisites like age (21 to 65 years old), a landline number, and valid TIN, SSS, or GSIS numbers, Robinson Bank requires applicants to have a minimum gross fixed annual income of PHP 180,000 if single and PHP 240,000 if married.

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