#ICYMI: Visa tap-to-pay arrives for Filipinos via Google Wallet

Each payment is protected by Visa's network token—a unique, one-time digital code.

Google Wallet now in PH

More payment options for Pinoys

Filipino Visa cardholders can now add their Visa debit or credit cards to Google Wallet and pay using Google Pay by simply unlocking their phone and tapping to pay at contactless-enabled terminals.

Also available for online and in-app purchases, each payment is protected by Visa’s network token—a unique, one-time digital code that can help prevent fraud while ensuring a seamless experience.

In collaboration with FinTech Alliance and Google, the service is now available in the Philippines through seven partner issuers: Chinabank, EastWest Bank, GoTyme Bank, Maya Bank, RCBC, UnionBank, and Wise.

This aligns with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ guidance that mobile payment providers are classified as technology service providers, meaning they do not hold consumer funds but simply link to Visa credit, debit, or prepaid cards.

According to BSP's latest data, digital retail payments now account for 57.4 percent of total transaction volume in the country, exceeding the 2024 target under the Philippine Development Plan, and are on track to meet the 70 percent target by 2028.

In Southeast Asia, Google Pay transactions are enabled by Visa's tokenization technology. Tokens are used to create seamless and secure payment experiences for businesses.

Each time a Visa card is added to Google Pay, the actual card number is replaced with a unique digital token which is stored securely on the device and is used, alongside cryptogram, to authorize each payment.

This means the cardholder’s real account information is never shared with merchants or stored on the device, and can significantly reduce the risk of fraud.

Furthermore, the company has also launched an exclusive campaign with Pick Up Coffee to promote the use of Google Pay.

Across 100 participating Pick Up Coffee stores nationwide, customers paying with their Visa card can receive a free upsize on their drinks, and get an additional PHP 50 off when they use Google Pay.