Visa and RCBC debit deal supports PH move toward cash-lite payments

Insider Spotlight

• Visa and RCBC deepen debit access as daily payments go digital
• Partnership aligns with government push toward a cash-lite society
• Debit cards positioned as bridge between cash control and digital ease
  
  

Visa and Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) are positioning debit cards as a key driver in the Philippines’ shift toward a cash-lite society, as the global payments firm signed a debit partnership enabling RCBC to issue Visa-branded debit cards nationwide.

The collaboration allows RCBC customers to transact across Visa’s global network of millions of merchant locations, both in-store and online, using funds directly from their bank accounts. 

The move underscores how banks and payment networks are reframing debit cards as everyday digital tools rather than simple cash substitutes.

Why it matters

The Philippines remains largely cash-driven, particularly for daily retail spending. Expanding debit acceptance supports national goals to digitize payments while preserving consumer preference for direct account-based control.

Visa said debit cards play an increasingly central role in digital commerce across Asia-Pacific, where nearly half of all card transactions are made through debit. 

By expanding debit issuance, the company aims to accelerate the country’s migration away from cash-heavy transactions.

What they’re saying

“By expanding the reach of debit payments, Visa helps accelerate the digitization of payments in the country,” Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Philippines country manager, said in a press release on Jan. 22, 2026.

“This collaboration aligns with the government’s vision of a cash-lite society, with Visa debit cards empowering RCBC consumers to make seamless everyday payments backed by Visa’s technology and global acceptance,” Navarro added.

RCBC president and CEO Reggie Cariaso emphasized trust and security as adoption drivers. 

“In an era where digital threats are evolving, security is not just a feature–it is the foundation. With Visa’s world-class security protocols and RCBC’s robust digital infrastructure, our customers can transact with absolute peace of mind,” he said.

Between the lines

Debit cards offer a middle ground for consumers hesitant to move fully into credit or e-wallets. 

They combine the familiarity of bank account spending with the convenience of digital acceptance, making them a practical on-ramp to cash-lite behavior.

RCBC has been active in digital payment infrastructure, including early adoption of card tokenization and participation in mobile wallet rollouts. 

These initiatives signal how traditional banks are reinforcing their role in the evolving payments ecosystem.

What’s next

As regulators and financial institutions continue pushing for broader digital adoption, partnerships like Visa and RCBC’s highlight debit cards as a scalable, trusted instrument for everyday use. 

For consumers, the shift promises fewer cash transactions and more seamless digital payments. For the industry, it marks another step toward normalizing a cash-lite economy. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma