Apple Pay Launches in the Philippines: Supported Banks and How to Set Up

Apple Pay has officially launched in the Philippines, allowing iPhone and Apple Watch users to add their supported debit and credit cards to the Wallet app and make contactless payments. As of today, customers can use Apple Pay at retail stores that support NFC payments, making it easier and faster to pay for everyday items.

How to Add Your Cards to Apple Pay

Setting up Apple Pay is simple. Just follow these steps:

• Open the Wallet app on your iPhone or Apple Watch.
• Tap the "+" button to add a new card.
• Choose whether you want to add a debit or credit card.
• Follow the on-screen instructions. Your bank will verify your card, typically via SMS or a phone call.

Supported Banks in the Philippines

According to early user reports on Reddit, the following banks are already supported:

• UnionBank
• GoTyme
• Metrobank
• Chinabank

More banks may be added soon. Apple usually updates its official list of participating banks after a launch, so keep an eye on Apple's website for the full list.

Where Can You Use Apple Pay?

You can use Apple Pay anywhere that accepts contactless payments. In the Philippines, Reddit users have already successfully paid at popular stores like Starbucks and 7-Eleven. Just look for the contactless symbol or the Apple Pay logo at checkout.

Why Use Apple Pay?

• Fast and convenient: Just hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the payment terminal.
• Secure: Your card number is not stored on your device or shared with the merchant. Instead, a unique token is used for each transaction.
• No physical wallet needed: Leave your cards at home and pay with your Apple device.

What About Other Countries?

Apple Pay is already available in many countries around the world. This launch in the Philippines means that locally issued cards can finally be tokenized and used on Apple Pay. The Philippines is now part of a growing list of supported countries, and Apple will likely update its official country list soon.

If you haven't tried Apple Pay yet, now is a great time to set it up. Go to your Wallet app, add your card, and start enjoying the convenience of contactless payments today.