As cashless transactions become increasingly common among Filipinos, possessing a credit card transcends mere status symbolism to become a vital necessity. Credit cards not only offer convenience, safety, and budgetary advantages in payments but also serve as effective tools for financial management, provided they are chosen wisely and utilized responsibly.
For those aiming to streamline their financial affairs, selecting the most suitable credit card is imperative. Below, you’ll find an exhaustive compilation of the finest credit cards available in the Philippines for various spending categories in 2024.
What Defines the Best Credit Card in the Philippines?
Choosing the perfect credit card is a subjective endeavor, contingent upon factors such as budget, lifestyle, spending patterns, and personal preferences. Furthermore, each credit card caters to a distinct demographic of cardholders.
Consider these crucial elements to streamline your decision-making process and identify the optimal credit card for your needs in the Philippines.
Three Essential Considerations for Selecting the Ideal Credit Card
Minimum Income and Prerequisites
Before proceeding, verify the eligibility criteria and documentation prerequisites for your prospective credit cards. Failure to meet the minimum income threshold specified by a particular card may result in the rejection of your application.
Credit Card Fees
Vigilantly scrutinize the annual fee, late payment charges, and over-limit fees associated with each credit card. For international usage, factor in foreign currency transaction fees as well. While these fees may appear trivial individually, they can accumulate significantly over time. To optimize savings, compare the fee structures of different credit cards and opt for one offering superior features at minimal costs. Ideally, consider securing a no-annual-fee credit card in the Philippines to potentially save up to ₱6,000 annually.
Credit Card Rewards, Cashback, and Privileges
Prioritize credit cards offering enticing incentives such as rewards, cashback, discounts, and complimentary perks tailored to your primary spending categories, be it dining, groceries, fuel, online purchases, or electronics. Ascertain the rate and ease of accruing these benefits to fully capitalize on your credit card’s advantages. After all, beyond facilitating transactions, credit cards are designed to enhance your overall lifestyle.
Here’s a brief overview of some of the premier credit cards available in the Philippines:
| Credit Card | Best For | Key Features |
UnionBank Rewards Credit Card |
Rewards |
|
Metrobank Platinum Mastercard® |
Dining |
|
HSBC Platinum Visa Rebate |
Travel |
|
Security Bank Complete Cashback Mastercard |
Cashback |
|
BPI Rewards Card |
Beginners |
|
Petron BPI Card |
Fuel Purchases and Auto Services |
|
UnionBank Lazada Credit Card |
Online Shopping |
|
Top Credit Cards in the Philippines for Beginners
BPI Rewards Card
- Annual Fee: ₱1,550 (First-year waiver)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱15,000
- Other Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: 21 to 60 years old
- Government-issued ID
- Proof of income
If you’re seeking a credit card with a low-income threshold, minimal annual fees, and adaptable installment options, the BPI Rewards Card is an excellent choice for novices. It’s also recognized as the premier credit card for beginners in the Philippines for 2024, offering rewards accumulation at a rate of 1 BPI point for every ₱35 spent. These points can be redeemed for air miles, gift vouchers, and shopping credits.
PNB Essentials Mastercard
- Annual Fee: ₱1,200
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱10,000
- Other Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: 21 to 65 years old
- Proof of income
- Proof of billing
- Valid ID
For a maiden credit card experience, the PNB Essentials Mastercard stands out with its low-income prerequisite and annual fees, coupled with a range of outstanding perks and benefits. Earn rewards points on every purchase, even while shopping abroad with transactions conveniently billed in pesos. Additionally, all supplementary cards are exempt from annual fees for life.
AUB Classic Mastercard
- Annual Fee: No annual fee for life
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱50,000
- Other Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: 21 to 65 years old
- Mobile number and home or office landline number
- Active email address
- Minimum one-year regular employment status, profitable business operation, or practice of a profession
- Identification and income documents
Enjoy a lifetime waiver of annual fees on all AUB credit cards. Although the AUB Classic Mastercard necessitates a relatively higher income threshold compared to typical beginner cards, it remains one of the most versatile options available, offering flexibility in payment frequency, due dates, and minimum amounts due.
Premier Rewards Credit Cards in the Philippines
UnionBank Rewards Credit Card
- Rewards Rate:
- 3x non-expiring reward points for shopping and dining domestically and internationally
- 1 non-expiring reward point for every ₱30 spent
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Annual Fee: ₱2,500 (waived for life with qualifying spend within the promo period)
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱15,000
If you’re seeking the ultimate rewards experience, the UnionBank Rewards Credit Card is your go-to choice. Whether you’re traveling, shopping, or indulging in culinary delights, this card ensures you earn rewards effortlessly. Accumulate points with every spend and redeem them for a variety of perks including merchandise, cash credits, and more.
Metrobank Titanium Mastercard®
- Rewards Rate:
- 1 reward point for every ₱20 spent
- 2x rewards points on dining, department store, and online purchases
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Annual Fee: ₱2,500
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱15,000
For avid online shoppers, the Metrobank Titanium Mastercard® offers unparalleled convenience and security. With features like e-commerce protection and 0% interest installment plans, it’s perfect for both everyday purchases and big-ticket items.
HSBC Red Mastercard
- Rewards Rate:
- 4x bonus points on online, dining, shopping, and overseas transactions
- 1 bonus point per ₱20 spent on other categories
- Other Notable Perks:
- 6% rebate on the first Caltex fuel purchase plus 3% fuel rebate year-round
- Annual Fee: ₱2,500 (First-year free)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱16,666.67
Designed for frequent shoppers, the HSBC Red Mastercard lets you accumulate points rapidly. Redeem your points for an array of rewards including gift certificates, air miles, and more.
Security Bank Gold Mastercard
- Rewards Rate: 1 point per ₱20 spend
- Other Perks:
- Non-expiring rewards points and exclusive offers
- SecureCode for safe online transactions
- Exclusive access to airport lounges
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Annual Fee: ₱2,500
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱30,000
With rewards points that never expire and exclusive benefits, the Security Bank Gold Mastercard is a must-have for enthusiastic shoppers. Plus, enjoy exciting perks including access to airport lounges.
BPI Platinum Rewards Card
- Rewards Rate:
- 2x points for every ₱30 local spend
- 2x points for every ₱20 foreign currency spend online and abroad
- Other Notable Perks:
- Up to ₱10 million free travel insurance
- Up to 180 days of purchase protection insurance
- Complimentary airport lounge passes
- Annual Fee: ₱4,000 (First-year free)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱83,333
Ideal for frequent shoppers, the BPI Platinum Rewards Card offers generous rewards and exclusive privileges. Convert your points into air miles and enjoy 0% interest installment plans.
RCBC Flex Visa
- Rewards Rate:
- 2x rewards points on two preferred categories
- Redeem points for shopping vouchers, cash rebates, or air miles
- Other Notable Perks:
- Free travel insurance
- Access to airport lounges
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Annual Fee: ₱1,500 (First-year waived)
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱15,000
Enjoy flexibility in spending and a plethora of rewards with the RCBC Flex Visa. Benefit from free purchase protection insurance for overseas purchases, making it an ideal companion for international shoppers.
Top Cashback Credit Cards in the Philippines
Security Bank Complete Cashback Platinum Mastercard
- Cashback Rate:
- 5% on groceries
- 4% on fuel
- 3% on utilities
- 2% on dining
- 1% on shopping
- Other Notable Features:
- Access to Marhaba Lounge at NAIA 1 and 3
- Free online purchase protection of up to US$200
- Annual Fee: ₱3,000 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱65,000
Enjoy a versatile five-tiered rebate system with the Security Bank Complete Cashback Platinum Mastercard. Earn cashback on essential expenses like groceries, gas, utilities, dining, and shopping, with rebates immediately credited to your balance.
BPI Amore Cashback Card
- Cashback Rate:
- Supermarkets: 4%
- Drugstores and utilities: 1%
- Other local retail spend: 0.3%
- Other Notable Perks:
- Unlimited access to exclusive customer and family lounges at Ayala Malls
- Low forex conversion rates at 1.85%
- Annual Fee: ₱2,050 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱15,000
Ideal for both shopping enthusiasts and those who prioritize groceries, medicines, and utilities. The BPI Amore Cashback Card offers up to 4% cashback on supermarkets and flexible installment plans for major purchases.
UnionBank Platinum Mastercard
- Cashback Rate: 1% on all purchases
- Maximum Monthly Rebate: None
- Other Notable Perks:
- Free lounge access at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3
- Free life insurance coverage of up to ₱400,000
- Annual Fee: ₱3,000
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱50,000
Experience simplicity with the UnionBank Platinum Mastercard, offering a flat 1% cashback rate on all spending categories. Enjoy unlimited cashback accumulation with no expiry, along with a generous welcome cashback offer for new cardholders.
Top Travel Credit Cards in the Philippines
Metrobank World Mastercard®
- Rewards Points Earn Rate:
- 1 reward point for every ₱20 spent
- 2x rewards points for every ₱20 international spend
- Air Miles Earn Rate: 1 mile = ₱25 foreign currency spend
- Other Notable Perks:
- Free airport lounge membership
- First-year annual fee waiver for two assigned supplementary cards
- Up to 50% off on dining deals
- Annual Fee: ₱6,000
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱333,333
Make the most of your travels with the Metrobank World Mastercard®. Earn rewards points and air miles on both local and international spending, and enjoy exclusive perks like free lounge access and dining discounts.
HSBC Platinum Visa Rebate
- Travel Rebate Rate: 5% cash back on travel and shopping transactions
- Other Notable Perks:
- Free travel insurance
- 6% rebate on the first Caltex fuel purchase plus 3% fuel rebate all year round
- Annual Fee: ₱5,000 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱41,666.67
Ideal for frequent travelers, the HSBC Platinum Visa Rebate card offers high cashback rates on travel and shopping, along with additional perks like free insurance and fuel rebates.
Security Bank Platinum Mastercard
- Rewards Points Earn Rate: 2 points per ₱20 spend
- Other Notable Perks:
- Free travel insurance of up to ₱10 million
- Access to 1,000 airport lounges worldwide
- Annual Fee: ₱4,000
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱65,000
Earn rewards points quickly with the Security Bank Platinum Mastercard and enjoy exclusive travel benefits such as free travel insurance and access to airport lounges.
BPI Signature Card
- Air Miles Earn Rate: ₱50 spend = 1 mile
- Rewards Points Earn Rate: ₱20 spend = 2 BPI Points
- Other Notable Perks:
- Up to ₱20 million free travel accident and inconvenience benefit
- Complimentary access to airport lounges
- A low forex conversion rate of 1.85%
- Annual Fee: ₱5,500 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱100,000
With the BPI Signature Card, enjoy fast miles conversion rates, exclusive travel insurance benefits, and access to airport lounges, making it perfect for frequent flyers.
RCBC AirAsia Credit Card
- Air Miles Earn Rate:
- 2 AirAsia points per ₱25 AirAsia spend
- 1 AirAsia point per ₱22 international retail spend
- 1 AirAsia point per ₱28 domestic retail spend
- Other Notable Perks:
- Welcome gift of up to 8,000 AirAsia points
- Accepted globally
- Annual Fee: ₱3,600 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱20,833
Earn points quickly with the RCBC AirAsia Credit Card and redeem them for free flights or vouchers from various merchants, along with other travel-related perks.
Top Dining Credit Cards in the Philippines
Metrobank Platinum Mastercard®
- Discount: 50% off on dining deals
- Other Notable Perks:
- Earn 1 reward point for every ₱20 spent
- Automatic worldwide insurance for online purchases with e-Commerce Protection
- Free first supplementary card
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Annual Fee: ₱5,000
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱58,333
Indulge in dining delights with the Metrobank Platinum Mastercard®. Enjoy exclusive discounts and rewards points for every dining experience, along with complimentary insurance and waived annual fees for your first supplementary card.
HSBC Gold Visa Cash Back
- Rebates:
- 5% rebate on dining all year round
- Additional rebates on select categories
- Annual Fee: ₱2,500 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱16,667
Savor the flavor of savings with the HSBC Gold Visa Cash Back card, offering generous rebates on dining expenses throughout the year, along with additional perks for other spending categories.
BPI Amore Platinum Cashback Card
- Rebates:
- Up to 4% cash back on dining and online delivery
- Additional cashback on supermarkets and department stores
- Annual Fee: ₱5,000 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱83,333
Explore culinary delights with the BPI Amore Platinum Cashback Card, earning substantial cashback rewards on dining expenses locally and internationally, coupled with exclusive Ayala Mall perks.
Top Credit Cards in the Philippines for Installment Payments
AUB Gold Mastercard
- Installment Terms: 0% interest on new purchases
- Other Notable Perks:
- Transferable rewards points to the Mabuhay Miles Frequent Flyer Program
- Forever waived annual fees for supplementary cards
- Annual Fee: No annual fees forever
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱50,000
Experience financial flexibility with the AUB Gold Mastercard, offering zero-interest installment plans and waived annual fees for supplementary cards, along with transferable rewards points for exciting benefits.
RCBC Gold Mastercard
- Installment Terms: Convert straight purchases to installments for up to 36 months
- Other Notable Perks:
- Non-expiring rewards points
- Free travel insurance
- Access to airport lounges
- Annual Fee: ₱3,000 (First-year waived)
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱50,000
Enjoy convenient payment options with the RCBC Gold Mastercard, allowing you to stretch your budget with long-term installment plans, while earning rewards points and accessing exclusive travel benefits.
RCBC Visa Infinite Card
- Installment Terms: Convert straight purchases to installments for up to 36 months
- Other Notable Perks:
- Generous reward points for various spending categories
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Access to airport lounges
- Annual Fee: ₱6,000 (First-year waived)
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱300,000
Elevate your shopping experience with the RCBC Visa Infinite Card, offering unlimited installment options, premium rewards, and extensive travel perks, making it the ultimate card for discerning individuals.
Top Credit Cards in the Philippines for Online Shopping
UnionBank Lazada Credit Card
- Rewards Rates:
- ₱6 Lazada Credits per ₱200 spend at Lazada
- ₱1 Lazada Credit per ₱200 spend elsewhere
- Welcome Gift: ₱5,000 Lazada Wallet Credits
- Other Notable Perks:
- Free monthly shipping for qualifying purchases
- Discount vouchers during Mega Sales
- Annual Fee: ₱3,000 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱30,000
Be part of the digital revolution with the UnionBank Lazada Credit Card, offering exclusive rewards and perks tailored for online shoppers, including generous Lazada Credits and special discounts during Mega Sales.
BPI eCredit Card
- Rewards Rate: 1 point per ₱35 spent
- Annual Fee: Free for life
- Interest Rate: 3%
Enhance your online shopping experience with the BPI eCredit Card, providing added security and convenience for your digital transactions, all with no annual fees for life.
China Bank Prime Mastercard
- Rewards Rates:
- 1 reward point for every ₱25 spent
- 1 reward point for every ₱200 spent at service merchants
- Other Notable Perks:
- Exclusive deals and benefits
- Companion virtual card for online purchases
- Annual Fee: ₱1,500 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱20,833
Experience seamless online shopping with the China Bank Prime Mastercard, offering attractive rewards and privileges, including a virtual card for secure online transactions and complimentary membership perks.
Best Credit Cards in the Philippines for Fuel Purchases and Auto Services
Petron BPI Card
- Rebates: 3% fuel rebate at participating Petron stations
- Other Notable Perks: Free ₱200 fuel voucher for first-time cardholders
- Annual Fee: ₱1,550 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱15,000
Drive smarter with the Petron BPI Card, enjoying substantial fuel rebates and exclusive perks tailored for motorists, including free fuel vouchers and flexible payment options.
Metrobank Toyota Mastercard®
- Rewards:
- 3% fuel rebate at participating Petron stations
- Bonus rewards at Toyota dealerships
- Other Notable Perks:
- Discounts on Toyota services and accessories
- Roadside assistance
- Annual Fee: ₱2,500
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱15,000
Maximize your driving experience with the Metrobank Toyota Mastercard®, offering premium rewards and benefits designed for Toyota owners, including fuel rebates, bonus rewards, and exclusive discounts on maintenance services.
RCBC Flex Gold Visa
- Rewards: 2x points in 3 preferred categories, including gas
- Other Notable Perks: Travel insurance coverage, Purchase Protection, and lounge access
- Annual Fee: ₱3,000 (First-year waived)
- Interest Rate: 3%
- Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: ₱50,000
Make every journey count with the RCBC Flex Gold Visa, earning double points on fuel purchases and enjoying comprehensive travel benefits, making it the perfect companion for your daily commute.
