Currency, Credit Cards, Changing Money in the Philippines (2024)

FAQs

Can I use my US credit card in the Philippines? ›

Credit cards are accepted in most tourist destinations in the Philippines. Cards that are part of the Visa® or Mastercard® payment network are the most widely accepted. Some card issuers add a foreign transaction fee for every purchase made abroad. It's typically 1%-3% of the total purchase amount.

There are plenty of situations where you'll be needing cash, such as tipping, visiting local markets and buying street food. Depending on your vacation style, you might be able to use only cards during your trip. However, having some cash is still the best option.

Wait until you arrive in the Philippines to exchange your money. It's worth doing your research before buying your pesos, as the exchange rates offered in Europe and North America are often not as good as those you'll get on arrival.

When using our digital services, you can send money transfers by credit/debit card and send wire transfers to a bank account, mobile wallet, or for cash pickup at a MoneyGram agent in the Philippines.

Can I use my American Visa credit or debit card abroad? You can use your U.S. Visa card abroad to make purchases or withdraw cash. To withdraw cash from an ATM, you'll need to know your four digit PIN number.

Currency Exchange in the Philippines

You will find money changers all over the Philippines – US dollars are the most useful foreign currency to bring as they are the most widely accepted currency (especially in non-touristy areas).

Which ATM is best for foreigners in the Philippines? HSBC ATMs are among the best options for foreigners, as they don't charge fees for withdrawals using foreign-issued cards.

Exchange at a bank or credit union before your trip: Exchanging money at your local banking center before your trip is likely the most cost-effective way to get the money you need. Since you have an existing relationship with the bank, it's more likely to give you the best exchange rates.

You may be able to buy your travel money from a bank, or from a currency exchange office or at the airport. For convenient travel without needing to carry a lot of cash with you, you could also get your PHP travel card before you leave, to spend and withdraw when you're away.

What to do before entering Philippines? ›

Yes, cards issued by U.S. Bank can be used in most foreign countries. If you're planning to travel and want to use your card, let us know. This will help reduce declined transactions on your trip.

Yes. A fee amounting to Php 200 will be charged for every Cash Advance transaction. Note: Additional charges may be applied by other banks' ATM per transaction.

In Mexican cities and tourist areas, credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted. If you want to pay with American Express, you should ask first.

The unit of currency in the Philippines is the Peso (P) which is divided into 100 centavos (c). Bank notes come in: P10, P20, P50, P100, P200, P500 and P1000. Coins come in: 5c, 10c, 25c, P1, P5, and P10. Most major credit cards are accepted with Visa and MasterCard being the most widely so.

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted throughout the world. If a business accepts credit cards, your Visa or Mastercard will likely work fine. The other two — American Express and Discover — do have a global footprint, but they are accepted at fewer merchants.