Tagbilaran City has rolled out its “Cityzen’s Card,” a multipurpose ID and prepaid card powered by GCash and Visa. The new card aims to help residents access government services and digital financial tools more easily.
“The Cityzen’s Card is a powerful example of how digital tools can enable smart governance,” said Cleo Santos, vice president and head of public sector at GCash. “By embedding financial access into city services, we’re not only streamlining aid and assistance delivery but also supporting efficient governance, like that of Tagbilaran, and driving real financial inclusion for their constituents.”
Launched during the city’s annual Saulog Festival, the Cityzen’s Card will first be given to 80,000 residents, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and public sector workers. Tagbilaran is the first city in the Visayas region to adopt this type of card, which will serve as both an ID and a payment tool.
Improving public service delivery
Through this card, the local government can send financial aid and allowances straight to GCash accounts. This move removes the need for physical distribution and helps prevent delays and errors.
Residents can also use the card for cashless payments at stores that accept Visa. They can access savings, loans, insurance, and investments offered by GCash. The card comes with discounts at select shops, helping boost local business activity.
Part of wider digital push
“Digitalization is part of the key executive agenda of my administration,” said Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap during the Liveable Cities LocalLab.
This project supports a growing movement among Philippine cities to work with digital finance providers. With more than half of the country’s population still unbanked, tools like the Cityzen’s Card are helping bridge the gap in access to essential services.
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