Digital payments processor Visa has launched its second contactless payment initiative in the Philippines, partnering with Good Transport Solutions Inc. (GTSI) and GHL to enable cashless payments on modern jeepneys in Bacolod City.
The project, announced during the MassKara Festival, equips 45 jeepneys with Visa payment terminals, allowing passengers to tap their Visa cards for fare payments.
“This initiative aims to enhance travel experiences for commuters and tourists by providing more payment options,” said Jeff Navarro, Visa Philippines country manager. “By enabling contactless payments, we are establishing a seamless, cross-border travel experience with a unified digital payment solution.”
The new system allows users to link their EastWest Visa credit cards to smartphones via the EastWest Pay app, providing an additional cashless payment method.
“Our app enables cashless and contactless transactions with a simple smartphone tap,” added Alywin Tamayo, senior vice president at EastWest Bank.
Digital payments
This is Visa’s second transit project in the country, following its Cebu launch, and part of the company’s broader effort to promote digital payments in public transport across the Asia Pacific region. A YouGov survey commissioned by Visa found that 67% of Filipinos are more likely to get a contactless card if it can be used for public transportation.
Visa’s initiative comes as Bacolod City sees a 26% increase in tourist arrivals and recent street improvements aimed at boosting accessibility and safety. The contactless payment system is expected to make commuting easier for both locals and tourists while contributing to the city’s growing tourism and economic development.