Compare credit cards in the Philippines

For groceries and supermarket spend, the BPI Amore Cashback pays 4% (the highest broadly available headline rate). For dining, BDO Cashback Amex hits 6%. For online shopping, Security Bank Complete Cashback gives 5% with no cap. The right answer depends on where you spend most — use the credit card finder linked above to match a card to your spending pattern.

Cashback is the simplest: a flat percentage credited to your bill. Points are flexible but the conversion rate matters (typically ₱1 spend = 1 point, 1,000 points = ₱200-₱250 reward — about 2-2.5% effective). Miles are best for frequent flyers (PAL Mabuhay Miles, Cebu Pacific GetGo). If you fly less than once a year, cashback or points usually beats miles.

Yes — UnionBank Simplicity, Metrobank Free For Life Mastercard, HSBC Cashback Mastercard, and AUB Easy Mastercard all advertise free-for-life annual fees. Many other issuers waive the annual fee for the first year, and some waive it permanently if you meet a minimum annual spend.

Most entry-level cards require ₱180,000-₱360,000 annual income (about ₱15k-₱30k monthly). Premium and travel cards (HSBC Premier, BPI Signature, Metrobank Travel Platinum) require ₱600k+. UnionBank Simplicity is one of the most accessible, accepting lower income tiers.

Pay the full statement balance every month before the due date — never just the minimum. PH credit card APRs are around 36-42% effective, among the highest in Asia. If you carry a balance, interest will eat any cashback or rewards you earned. Set up auto-debit for the full amount on payday and treat the card like a debit card.

Card features and annual fee waivers shift monthly. We re-verify each card quarterly against the bank's product page; promotional uplifts (bonus cashback for new cardholders) change more often. Always tap "Apply" to see the current promo on the bank's site before committing.