Using Russian Cards and Transfers in Philippines: real experience from chats
Short answer
Carry US dollars in cash as the most reliable payment method, as card acceptance and ATM withdrawals are inconsistent. For converting Russian funds, utilize authorized money changers or digital transfer services like MTS Money or Sberbank to avoid the risks of private exchanges.
From real experience
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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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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Official money exchange in the Philippines is safer via authorized partners like Moneybees.
Be cautious of scammers on social platforms offering private transfers. GCash services are tied to specific SIM cards; purchasing a pre-owned SIM can lead to account conflicts. Cash-out via QR codes (Sberbank/local networks) incurs high fees (5-10%) and multiple currency conversions.
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Direct exchange of Russian Rubles (RUB) to Philippine Pesos (PHP) on the Philippines can be challenging through official channels.
Private money changers are an option but carry risks. A more secure method involves using services like Sberbank to transfer funds to cash pick-up points where PHP can be withdrawn, with a small percentage fee applied. This avoids the risks associated with unofficial exchanges.
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For converting Russian Rubles (RUB) to Philippine Pesos (PHP), several digital transfer services are available: Sberbank, VTB, and MTS Money.
MTS Money is noted for potentially offering better exchange rates than Sberbank via its 'transfer to another country' function. Additionally, physical money changers are abundant in tourist areas like Boracay.
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For currency exchange in the Philippines, inquire about services that accept cash USD and can facilitate transfers from Russian bank cards.
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