The best credit cards in the Philippines are what you need if you want hassle-free cashless transactions.
Nowadays, more Filipinos are aware of the pros of cashless payments. Aside from convenience, cashless payment also facilitates more secure and efficient transactions.
As the popularity of cashless payments surges in the country, more people are looking for the best credit cards in the Philippines.
Why not? The best credit cards in the Philippines are the best platforms to make safe, contactless payments.
Banks and other financial institutions issue credit cards that allow cardholders to make cashless payments. You can also borrow money using the best credit cards in the Philippines.
If used correctly, credit cards can certainly help you manage your finances well.
But you can’t be too complacent since there are various credit cards you can get in the Philippines today. You must conduct research before applying for a credit card in the Philippines. Otherwise, you may fall into the trap of scammers.
There are many considerations you need to take if you want to apply for the best credit card in the Philippines that suits your needs. But don’t worry; we did the legwork for you. We’ve collated the top 10 best credit cards in the Philippines with the easiest application process, best features, and services for your convenience.
But before moving on, let’s first understand what constitutes the best credit cards in the Philippines.
What is the Best Credit Card?
Before revealing the best credit cards in the Philippines, we should get back to the basics first. Right from the get-go, we should know how to distinguish legitimate credit cards from hoaxes.
Honestly, there is no single credit card that fits everyone’s needs. So, if you want to know the right credit card to use, consider the following:
- Minimum income- You can’t just like and apply for a particular credit card without checking the required income threshold. The income requirement varies depending on the provider.
For example, PNB offers credit cards to Filipinos earning at least ₱120,000 a year. On the other hand, HSBC’s Red Mastercard requires a higher annual income threshold of ₱120,000. Again, the income requirement will vary depending on where you get the card and the included features and services.
- Add-on requirements- Aside from the minimum income, there are other requirements you need to suffice to get the best credit cards in the Philippines. Again, add-on requirements may vary depending on the bank/ financial institution where you’ll avail a credit card.
Some of the additional requirements may include an existing credit card, proof of income, alien certification (for foreigners), and DTI/ SEC registration documents for self-employed individuals.
- Credit card charges- All credit cards in the Philippines will ask for fees- these fees might be small, but they balloon over time.
You’ll usually encounter annual, overlimit, and late payment charges when applying for a credit card.
If you’re looking for the best credit card in the Philippines, compare the fees first. Find the best option with the lowest charges and fees without compromising the necessary features and services.
- Lifestyle- We have different spending habits and unique ways of handling our finances. To find the best credit card that suits your personality, evaluate your lifestyle first.
Ask important questions: Will this credit card provide me with all my necessities in a month? Am I capable of paying the dues? Is the interest rate on my credit card reasonable?
Know as well that credit cards fall into a specific category. Choose the best credit cards in the Philippines that will match your priority. There are credit cards that are best for online purchases, dining, fuel, groceries, and buying gadgets.
- Credit card perks, rewards and cashback- Find a credit card that offers users a wide array of perks, bonuses, and cashback. Compare some of the most attractive deals, such as freebies, discounts, rewards, and rebates.
Aside from knowing the perks you can get from a particular credit card, you should also know how fast you can get the benefits.
Pros and Cons of Credit Cards in the Philippines
Pros
- Contactless payment
- Convenience
- Teach cardholders to be responsible
- Secure and protected by laws
- Helps monitor monthly spending
- More secure than debit cards
- You can earn perks and rewards
- Safer (especially in online shopping)
- Save money in purchasing groceries
- Save money in purchasing fuels
- It helps build an outstanding credit history
- You’re protected in your purchases
- Your money is safe even if your card is lost
- Easy to avail
Cons
- Overspending risk
- You’re at risk of fraud/ scams
- High penalty/ fees/ charges
- Higher interest rates
Now that you understand credit cards and their pros and cons, we will explore our list of the best credit cards in the Philippines.
10 Best Credit Cards in the Philippines 2024
1. MetroBank Titanium Mastercard
MetroBank Titanium Mastercard is the best credit card for all your shopping essentials.
Enjoy 2x reward points for dining, department store transactions, and online payments made via MetroBank Titanium Mastercard.
But wait…there’s more! You’ll also earn 1 point for every ₱20 you spend on other categories.
Best for:
Online, dining, department store spending
Monthly Interest rates:
3%
Key features:
- E-commerce protection
- Rewards Program
- Add- on services: Bills2Pay, Cash Rush, Cash2Go, MTXT, Payment channels, MSOA, M Connect
- 0% interest rate installment plans
- Chip Card
- Supplementary card
- M Here (offers excellent deals, big discounts, and gives gifts to cardholders)
Eligibility:
Age | Min. Annual Income | Required Documents |
21- 70 years old | ₱180,000 | Government-issued ID (should bear the applicant’s date of birth and signatureProof of income Applicants without existing credit cards need to present the following: a copy of the ITR (stamped) or BIR 2316 duly signed by the employer/ copy of three payslips (latest three months) |
Fees and Charges:
Monthly Interest Rate | 3% |
Annual Fee | Free |
Monthly Effective Interest Rate (Cash Advance) | 2% |
Cash Advance Fee | ₱200 |
2. UnionBank Rewards Credit Card
Are you looking for a credit card where you can get the most rewards? Well, end your hunt now, as the UnionBank Rewards Credit Card has all the perks you need!
With UnionBank Rewards Credit Card, you’ll enjoy the maximum rewards you can imagine with annual fees waived for LIFE!
Racking up points has never been easy with the UnionBank Rewards Credit Card. In fact, you can easily triple your non-expiring points if you use the Rewards Visa Platinum credit card for dining or shopping transactions.
Best for:
Rewards
Monthly Interest rates:
3%
Key features:
- 3X points for dining and shopping anywhere in the Philippines and abroad
- Earn 1X point for every ₱30 you spend
- Non-expiring points
- Supplementary card
- Points are redeemed for gadgets, cash credits, and other items
- You can use the user-friendly UB Online App to manage your credit card
- Get access to exclusive deals courtesy of UnionBank partners, which include discounts in restaurants, resorts, airlines, hotels, and other establishments worldwide
Eligibility:
Age | Min. Annual Income | Required Documents |
18- 70 years old | ₱180,000 | Government-issued ID (should bear the applicant’s date of birth and signature)Proof of income, any of the following:Certificate of EmploymentIncome Tax ReturnLatest payslips (latest three months)Statement of Account (SOA) from other banks Foreigners will be required to present a copy of Alien Certification of Registration |
Fees and Charges:
Monthly Interest Rate | 3% |
Annual Fee | ₱2,500- principal cardholders (fee is waived for the first year)₱1,250- supplementary cardholders (fee is waived for the first year) |
Cash Advance Fee | ₱200/ transaction |
Overlimit Charge | ₱1,500 or the highest overlimit amount within a particular billing period (whichever is lower) |
Late Payment Fee | ₱1,500 or the minimum unpaid amount due (whichever is lower) |
3. UnionBank Lazada Credit Card
If you’re a fan of online shopping, particularly on Lazada, this Credit Card option is best for you!
With UnionBank Lazada Credit Card, you’ll enjoy exclusive deals and discounts intended for loyal Lazada buyers like you!
All the Lazada credits you’ll earn are transferable to your Lazada Wallet to ensure a seamless online shopping experience.
Best for:
Lazada/ Online Shopping
Monthly Interest rates:
3%
Key features:
- Get FREE ₱5,000 Lazada Credits (for newly approved credit cards)
- Earn 6X Lazada Credits for every ₱200 spent on the app
- Earn 1X Lazada Credit for every ₱200 spent on other transactions
- Once your credit card application is approved, you can also use its virtual credit card version via UnionBank’s Online Mobile App
- Free sale vouchers and shipping
- The annual fee is waived in the first year
- Enjoy exclusive discounts from selected Lazada partner merchants
Eligibility:
Age | Min. Annual Income | Required Documents |
18- 70 years old | ₱360,000 | Government-issued ID (should bear the applicant’s date of birth and signature)GSIS/ SSS/ UMID numberTINBusiness permits (for self-employed)Audited financial statements (self-employed)Proof of income, any of the following:Certificate of EmploymentIncome Tax ReturnLatest payslips (latest three months)Statement of Account (SOA) from other banks Foreigners will be required to present a copy of Alien Certification of Registration |
Fees and Charges:
Monthly Interest Rate | 3% |
Annual Fee | ₱3,000 |
Cash Advance Fee | ₱200/ transaction |
Late Payment Fee | ₱1,000 |
Overlimit Fee | ₱500 |
Card Replacement Fee | ₱400 |
4. Security Bank Gold Mastercard
Secure online shopping, exclusive offers, airport lounge access, unbelievable perks, and worldwide acceptance- these are what the Security Bank Gold Mastercard promises to clients.
If you love staying outdoors or shopping online frequently, the Security Bank Gold Mastercard is your perfect buddy!
Best for:
Rewards/ frequent online shopping
Monthly Interest rates:
3%
Key features:
- Earn 1 point for every ₱20 spend
- Free annual fee (for the first year)
- With SecureCode feature for a more secure online shopping
- Exclusive perks and deals
- Supplementary credit card
- Provides unlimited airport lounge access
- SimplyPay, a feature that allows cardholders to pay items that require bank deposit payments
- It can be used anywhere in the world
Eligibility:
Age | Min. Annual Income | Required Documents |
21- 60 years old | ₱ 360,000 | Government-issued ID (should bear the applicant’s date of birth and signature)Certificate of EmploymentGSIS/SSS/ UMID NumberValid TINProof of income (latest one month payslip or ITR) For self-employed: Government-issued ID (should bear the applicant’s date of birth and signature)Certificate of EmploymentGSIS/SSS/ UMID NumberValid TINActive mobile phone/ landline numberMust be a Security Bank depositor (for at least 1 year)SEC/ DTI registrationAudited Financial Statements (last 2 years) |
Fees and Charges:
Monthly Interest Rate | 3% |
Annual Fee | Free (for the first year)₱2,500 (after the first year) |
Cash Advance Fee | ₱200 |
Minimum Payment | ₱500 |
5. Security Bank Fast Track Secured Credit Card (Exclusive for Security Bank Mastercard holders only)
Are you looking for the best secured credit card in the country? Then, the Security Bank Fast Track Secured Credit Card is what you’re looking for!
The Security Bank Fast Track Secured Credit Card is designed for clients to open a savings account quickly and at the same time get a secured credit card.
A secured credit card is a type of credit card that requires a cash deposit upon opening an account.
Why avail of a secured credit card?
Well, since you’re required to deposit a certain amount, you can actually apply for a secured credit card despite having a bad credit record.
Best for:
- Savings and building a good credit score
- People who immediately need a credit card (even though with a bad credit history)
- New spenders
Monthly Interest rates:
3%
Key features:
- Free annual fee for the first year
- Fast processing (3 days average)
- Earn reward points in every transaction (applies to Gold and Platinum Mastercard)
- Earn interest from your savings
- It helps build a good credit score and credit history
- Automate bills payment
- Available credit card limit is easily convertible to cash
Eligibility:
The Fast Track Program is available to new and existing Security Bank credit card holders.
Choose any of the following products:
- Gold Mastercard
- Platinum Mastercard
- Wave Mastercard
Age | Min. Annual Income | Required Documents |
21- 65 years old | There is no minimum gross annual income requirement. However, a savings account must have a minimum hold-up deposit of ₱25,000, while for a time deposit, ₱100,000 is required. | Government-issued IDFilled out Application FormFilled out Holdout Agreement Form (for joint accounts)For non-Filipinos, they are required to present copies of their Alien Certificate of Registration, Embassy Accreditation Papers, and work permit *Residence/ business landline number is also required |
Fees and Charges:
Monthly Interest Rate | 3% |
Annual Fee | Free (for the first year)₱2,000- ₱4,000 for the succeeding years (depending on the particular Security Bank credit card you qualify for) |
Cash Advance Fee | ₱200 |
Minimum Payment | 4% of the bill or ₱500 |
6. HSBC Red Mastercard
4X the rewards, 4X the fun! Yes, the HSBC Red Mastercard is going all-out, as it offers 4X reward points to cardholders!
Are you thrilled to learn more about this GIGANTIC offer? Read the specs below.
Best for:
- Shopping
- Dining locally/ abroad
Monthly Interest rates:
3%
Key features:
- Earn 4X bonus points in every ₱20 you spend on qualified categories (includes shopping, dining, online purchases, and other overseas transactions)
- Accumulated points are convertible into gift certificates, vouchers, special items, and air miles
- New cardholders enjoy a 6% rebate on their first Caltex fuel purchase and 3% on their succeeding purchases
- Get exclusive privileges at over 27,000 HSBC partner establishments worldwide
- 0% card installment plan
- Equipped with HSBC’s Auto charge feature that automatically debits your bills to your card
- eStatement, a feature that delivers your credit card statement directly to your email account
Eligibility:
Age | Min. Annual Income | Required Documents |
21- 65 years old | ₱200,000 | Proof of Identity/ Valid ID Any of the following: Driver’s LicensePassportNBI ClearanceVoter’s IDSSS/TIN IDProof of residence (must bear the name of the applicant)Valid ID containing the complete name and address of the applicantUtility bills (landline, electricity bills, cable TV bills issued in the last three months containing the exact address reflected on the ID presented) |
Fees and Charges:
Monthly Interest Rate | 3% |
Annual Fee | Free (for the first year)₱2,500 in the succeeding years |
Cash Advance Fee | ₱200 |
Late Payment Fee | Unpaid minimum amount due or ₱1,000, whichever is lower |
Overlimit Fee | ₱800 |
Foreign Transaction Fee | 2.5% of the converted sum plus the assessment charge’s reimbursement, equivalent to 1% of the converted amount |
Card Replacement Fee | ₱400 |
7. BPI Rewards Card
BPI Rewards Card guarantees great deals and flexibility you can’t find from its competitors.
Aside from the year-round perks, discounts, and freebies, the BPI Rewards Card can give you quick cash when needed.
How much?
Up to 30% of your credit limit.
Best for:
Daily needs
Monthly Interest rates:
3%
Key features:
- Withdraw cash anytime (up to 30% of your available credit limit)
- 0% Special Installment Plan (S.I.P.)
- Buy Now Pay Later (Extend loan term for up to 36 months)
- Up to 2 Million Pesos insurance coverage when you use the BPI Rewards Card to book your flight
- BPI Autocharge (Automate bill’s deductions)
Eligibility:
Age | Min. Annual Income | Required Documents |
At least 21 years old | ₱180,000 | 1 Valid ID containing a signature, such as driver’s license, passport, Philippine National IDCompany IDs are honored as long as the issuer is BSP or SEC-registeredProof of income or credit card statement |
Fees and Charges:
Monthly Interest Rate | 3% |
Annual Fee | Free (for the first year)₱1,550 in the succeeding years |
Cash Advance Fee | ₱200 |
Late Payment Fee | Unpaid minimum amount due or ₱ 850, whichever is lower |
Check Protect | 2% of the funded amount or ₱1, 200, whichever is higher |
Foreign Transaction Fee | 0.85% of the converted sum plus the assessment charge equivalent to 1% |
Card Replacement Fee | ₱400 |
8. RCBC Classic Mastercard
Confused on what’s the best credit card to pick? You can’t go wrong with the CLASSIC!
The RCBC Classic Mastercard gives you reward points for each swipe you make. You can convert your rewards to rebates, vouchers, air miles, and other exclusive perks.
Best for:
Budget-savvy cardholders and frequent travelers
Interest rates:
3%
Key features:
- Free annual year (first year), ₱1,500 every year (succeeding years)
- Exclusive perks and discounts
- 1 point per ₱36 spend
- Travel Insurance
- With free budget monitoring tools
Eligibility:
Age | Min. Annual Income | Required Documents |
21- 65 years old | ₱180,000 | Duly filed out Application Form1 Valid ID containing a signature, such as driver’s license, passport, Philippine National ID Proof of income:Latest payslipCertificate of Employment (CoE)Income Tax Return (ITR)/ Bank Stamp For self-employed: Duly filled out Application Form1 Valid ID, containing signature |
Fees and Charges:
Monthly Interest Rate | 3% |
Annual Fee | Free (for the first year)₱1,500 in the succeeding years |
Cash Advance Fee | ₱200 |
Late Payment Fee | Unpaid minimum amount due or ₱850, whichever is lower |
Over Limit | ₱600 |
Balance Transfer Processing Fee | ₱250 |
Card Replacement Fee | ₱500 |
9. AUB Easy Mastercard
Are you looking for the cheapest credit card option? Look no further, as the Asia United Bank understands you’re financially challenged.
Believe it or not, the AUB Easy Mastercard has NO annual fee, and it’s not for one year only but FOR LIFE!
Aside from being affordable, this credit card in the Philippines also provides flexible payment options. You can pay: weekly- ₱250 and semi-monthly- ₱500.
Best for:
- First-time cardholders
Interest rates:
3%
Key features:
- ZERO Annual Fee, FOR LIFE
- Cardholders can choose the payment frequency they prefer
- ZERO interest on new purchases
Eligibility:
Age | Min. Annual Income | Required Documents |
21- 65 years old | ₱ 600, 000 | Can show proof of regular employment for at least 1 yearIf self-employed, can provide copies of business registration/ permit; business should be operating profitably for at least 1 yearIf a licensed professional, should be practicing for at least 1 yearMust have a landline (residence/ office) and an active mobile phone numberActive email address1 government-issued ID, with photo or employment numberCopy of a Statement of AccountLatest Income Tax ReturnCertificate of EmploymentLatest 1 month payslipDTI Registration (preferably showing the applicant’s name) |
Fees and Charges:
Late Payment Fee | The unpaid minimum amount due or ₱1,000, whichever is lower (Monthly payment option)The unpaid minimum amount due or ₱500, whichever is lower (Semi-monthly payment option)The unpaid minimum amount due or ₱250, whichever is lower (Weekly payment option) |
Service fee | 1.5% |
Certification fee (good credit standing and full payment) | ₱350 |
Card Replacement Fee | ₱500 |
10. PNB Visa Classic
You know what? There’s a card that pays you back!
The PNB Visa Classic is developed to give cardholders the best perks they deserve!
Apply for a PNB Visa Classic Card now to receive great deals without spending too much!
Best for:
- Budget-conscious
- Rewards
Interest rates:
2%
Key features:
- A 1% rebate is awarded for every revolved interest
- Equipped with Card Protect for more secure transactions (online and in-person)
- You can pay your bills in Peso even with overseas transactions
- Online and global acceptance
- Lower annual fee
Eligibility:
Age | Min. Annual Income | Required Documents |
21- 65 years old | ₱ 120, 000 | Certificate of EmploymentLatest one month payslipIncome Tax ReturnGovernment-issued ID bearing photo and signatures of the employee and the authorized representative of the employerProof of billing (applicable for non-depositors), any utility bill, e.g., telephone, electricity, water, and the like For foreign nationals: Alien Certificate of Residence (ACR)Proof of Billing Any of the following: Work permitCompany IDInternal Revenue Service IDCertificate of Deposit (from the bank where the Visa/ PRA is deposited)Bureau of Immigration Approved Order |
Fees and Charges:
Annual Fee | ₱300 |
Service fee | 1.5% |
Effective Interest Rate | 2% |
Cash Advance Fee | 5% |
Takeaway
Now that you know the 10 best credit cards in the Philippines, it’s time to choose!
Carefully read this review, weigh the pros and cons, and compare the features each credit card offers.
The credit card that can meet your necessities without ruining your budget is the real BEST for YOU!