Since the official launch of Google Wallet in the Philippines three months ago, the convenience of phone-based payments has been gradually felt. According to Jeff Navarro, Country Head of Visa Philippines, Filipinos have been positively accepting Google Pay, especially among Android device users.
Some promotions like the Pickup Coffee cashback promo have helped more people try Google Pay for everyday transactions. Aside from Metro Manila, users have also been able to transact in Cebu and Cagayan de Oro, indicating wider merchant adoption in the country.
Although the list of banks that currently support Google Pay has remained the same since its launch in November, Visa Philippines is already working with other financial institutions to further accelerate the adoption of phone payments in the country.
One of the major banks that has pledged to support Google Pay with its credit and debit cards is BPI. According to Navarro, they are ready to help banks with adoption, but it is up to the banks to decide when they will fully offer the service.
With the continued positive reception of Google Pay, it is expected that more banks will join the platform in the coming months. For Filipinos who want a faster and more convenient way to pay, the future of mobile payments in the country looks even more exciting.
