Visa has announced that eligible Visa debit and credit cardholders in the Philippines can now add their cards to Apple Pay on iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac, expanding access to secure and contactless digital payments across the country.
The launch marks a significant step in the ongoing digitalization of payments in the Philippines, providing consumers with a faster, more convenient, and secure way to pay in stores, within apps, and online. The move also benefits international travelers and tourists, enabling seamless transactions wherever Apple Pay and contactless Visa payments are accepted.
According to Visa, travelers across the Asia-Pacific region increasingly prefer digital payment methods, with 97% planning to bring credit, debit, or prepaid cards on their trips, compared to only 17% who intend to carry foreign currency. Security and broad merchant acceptance remain among the top reasons consumers choose card-based payments.
Apple Pay allows users to make contactless payments by simply double-clicking the side button on their iPhone or Apple Watch, authenticating with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode, and holding the device near a payment terminal. The service can also be used for faster online and in-app purchases without repeatedly entering card or shipping details.
“Apple Pay represents the next evolution of payments in the Philippines, combining ease of use, simplicity, and security in every transaction,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines. He added that the service supports the country’s transition toward a cash-lite economy while improving payment experiences for both Filipinos and visitors.
Security remains a core feature of Apple Pay. Instead of storing actual card numbers on devices or servers, the platform uses a unique Device Account Number that is encrypted and securely stored within the device’s Secure Element chip. Each transaction is further protected through authentication and a one-time dynamic security code.
Customers can activate Apple Pay by opening the Wallet app on their iPhone, tapping the “+” icon, and following the prompts to add an eligible Visa card. Existing Visa card rewards and benefits remain available when using Apple Pay.
For Visa, the rollout strengthens its digital payments ecosystem in the Philippines while supporting the broader adoption of mobile wallets and contactless payment technologies.
