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Payment Methods and Cards in Philippines: real experience from chats

Short answer
Cash, particularly USD, remains the most reliable payment method in the Philippines, especially outside major cities and tourist hubs. While Visa cards from Kyrgyz banks and select UnionPay cards are often accepted for payments and ATM withdrawals, it is advised to carry a combination of cash and multiple card options due to inconsistent acceptance and withdrawal limits.

From real experience

In the Philippines, payment methods are evolving.
While cash was king, Visa cards are increasingly accepted in larger cities and tourist areas. Kyrgyz bank Visa cards (e.g., BAKAI) are reported to work without issues for payments and ATM withdrawals. However, smaller establishments or remote locations may still require cash or GCash. QR code payments, common in Vietnam via apps like Bybit, are less prevalent and reliable in the Philippines, with acceptance rates estimated between 60-70% by some users, and lower by others. Therefore, a combination of cash, cards, and QR payments is recommended. Alipay is generally not functional outside mainland China, with rare exceptions in places like Hong Kong.
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When traveling to the Philippines, it is advisable to carry US dollars in cash, as exchanging Russian rubles directly for Philippine Pesos is not widely available.
While UnionPay cards may work for ATM withdrawals and sometimes for payments, acceptance is not universal, and there can be daily withdrawal limits or ATM cash shortages. Cash in USD is the most reliable option. Ensure you have enough cash, as reliance on card payments or ATM withdrawals can be inconsistent.
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When attempting to withdraw cash in the Philippines with a Russian UnionPay card (e.g., from RSKhB), users report varying success and limits.
Banks like BPI, HSBC, and Chinabank are frequently mentioned. ATM withdrawal limits typically range from 10,000 to 20,000 PHP per transaction, and these limits can differ even at the same ATM for different users. If an ATM fails, try another one from a different bank. For higher withdrawal limits, it is suggested to visit a bank's physical office.
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Currency exchange in the Philippines: cash (USD to PHP) is the primary method of payment.
Exchange rates in Manila airport are generally competitive, whereas Cebu airport is considered unfavorable. UnionPay and other international cards are unreliable for direct payments and ATM withdrawals. It is recommended to carry cash in multiple secure locations. Online services like Kwikpay can sometimes be used to transfer funds to local e-wallets like GCash.
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Financial tips for Philippines travel: 1. ATMs are available, but withdrawing cash outside of major hubs (like Manila airport) usually incurs a 4-5% penalty due to less favorable exchange rates.
2. Some establishments accept QR code payments (like Sberbank/UnionPay where applicable). 3. Carrying large amounts of cash is generally discouraged due to security concerns; cards are widely used in developed areas.
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Credit cards are accepted in many establishments in Manila, especially in malls.
However, it is advisable to carry cash. ATMs are available, with BPI ATMs dispensing up to 40,000 PHP per transaction. The withdrawal fee is typically 250 PHP. Card acceptance may be more limited on islands.
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In the Philippines, Rosselkhozbank UnionPay cards are accepted.
Users can successfully make payments at hotel terminals and withdraw cash from ATMs.
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