Apple Pay Launches in Philippines to Drive Cash-Lite Economy

Apple Inc. officially launched Apple Pay in the Philippines on August 4, 2026, introducing contactless and online payment capabilities for users of iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac. The service allows customers to store digital versions of eligible cards in the Apple Wallet app, using tokenization to replace actual card numbers with encrypted Device Account Numbers for enhanced security.

The initial rollout supports credit and debit cards from Metrobank, UnionBank, GoTyme, and ChinaBank. Users can make purchases at thousands of physical retailers, including Jollibee, Rustan's, and WalterMart, as well as through apps and websites like Shopee and foodpanda. Maya Business is further expanding the service's reach by enabling it for over 5,000 online merchants.

The launch is supported by Visa and Mastercard, both of which stated that the move aligns with the national goal of transitioning to a cash-lite economy. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas had previously indicated the service was imminent as local banks met the necessary technical requirements. Availability remains dependent on specific card eligibility and merchant terminal compatibility.