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CIMB Bank Philippines has launched its "August Earn More Promo Series," a campaign designed to reward both new and existing customers with boosted interest rates on their savings. The promo runs from August 1 to August 31, 2025, and offers the chance to earn a total interest rate of up to 8.6% p.a. on your deposits. This is a significant opportunity for digital banking users to make their money work harder.



The core of the promotion is simple: the more you grow your savings, the higher your interest rate. To qualify, customers must increase their total Average Daily Balance (ADB) across all their CIMB accounts, including UpSave, GSave, LazSave, FastPlus, and MaxSave, compared to their total ADB from the previous month. The additional interest rates are tiered, meaning you get a bigger boost for a larger increase in your savings.



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How to Earn Boosted Interest Rates

The promo provides a clear path to higher returns based on your deposit growth. Here's a breakdown of the boosted interest rates you can earn:



Base Rate: All GSave and UpSave accounts earn a base rate of 2.60% p.a. and 2.50% p.a. respectively, with no cap on the ADB.

+0.50% p.a.: Grow your total ADB by at least ₱1,000.

+1.00% p.a.: Grow your total ADB by at least ₱5,000.

+1.50% p.a.: Grow your total ADB by at least ₱10,000.

+3.00% p.a.: Grow your total ADB by at least ₱50,000.




It's important to note that these boosted rates are only applicable to the first ₱100,000 of your ADB growth. Any amount beyond that will earn the standard base rate. The rewards will be credited to your GSave and/or UpSave accounts proportionally after the campaign period ends.


To be eligible, you must have at least one active and unblocked GSave and/or UpSave account. This promo is a great way for both new customers to kickstart their savings and for existing customers to earn more on their already established funds. CIMB Bank's continued focus on high-interest promos solidifies its position as a leading digital bank in the Philippines.


Earn More Up to 8.6% p.a. Interest with CIMB's August Promo


For many, the idea of earning a monthly income from the stock market seems like a distant dream. However, as one investor from the "Corpo Slave Investor" community has highlighted, it's a very achievable goal.



By carefully selecting a portfolio of dividend-paying stocks on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), investors can create a passive income stream that provides regular payouts throughout the year. The key lies in understanding which companies distribute dividends and their payment frequency, a process that requires diligent research.

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This guide, inspired by the insights of a seasoned investor, breaks down how to construct a dividend portfolio that can provide a consistent monthly income. It is crucial for every investor to remember to conduct their own due diligence, as market conditions and company policies can change.




The Strategy: A Breakdown by Payout Frequency

The strategy involves diversifying your portfolio across companies that pay dividends at different times of the year. By combining stocks that pay quarterly, tri-annually, semi-annually, and annually, you can ensure that cash flows into your account on a regular basis.


Quarterly Dividend Payers

These are the cornerstones of a monthly dividend income strategy, as they provide the most frequent payouts.

  • Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): By law, REITs are required to distribute at least 90% of their distributable income to shareholders on a quarterly basis. This makes them a reliable source of regular cash flow.

  • Holding Firms: Some major holding firms, such as LT Group, Inc. (LTG), are known to distribute quarterly dividends, sometimes with special bonus dividends on top of their regular payouts.

  • Telecommunications: Globe Telecom (GLO) is an example of a telecommunications company that consistently provides dividends to shareholders every quarter.

  • Banks: Certain banking institutions like BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO) have a history of distributing dividends on a quarterly basis, making them a solid inclusion for a steady income.



Tri-Annual Dividend Payers

These stocks can fill in the gaps between quarterly payouts, adding to the monthly income stream.

  • Banking: Metrobank (MBT) has historically distributed dividends every four months. As the source noted, their latest payout was in late March 2025, offering a dividend yield of approximately 6.88%.


Semi-Annual Dividend Payers

These companies provide larger, less frequent payouts that can be strategically timed to complement the other dividends in your portfolio.

  • Utilities: Meralco (MER) is a prime example. Its dividends have shown a consistent increase over the past five years, reflecting a strong and stable business.

  • Telecommunications: Unlike Globe, PLDT (TEL) has a history of paying dividends on a semi-annual basis.

  • Port Operations: International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), a global port terminal operator, is known for its semi-annual dividend distribution.

  • Food & Beverage: The food giant Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), which operates in numerous countries, also falls into this category with its semi-annual dividend payouts.


Annual Dividend Payers

While they only pay once a year, these stocks can provide a substantial lump sum to round out the portfolio.

  • Holding Firms: Companies like Alliance Global Group, Inc. (AGI) and Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV), with diverse investments across various sectors, typically distribute dividends on an annual basis.




Important Considerations and Caveats

This list primarily includes common shares, but preferred shares are another option to explore for dividend income. It's crucial to understand that a company's dividend payout is not guaranteed. It is subject to the approval of the company's Board of Directors (BOD). As the original post highlighted, some companies may halt dividend payouts due to factors such as low earnings or profits. The timing of dividend releases may also change, with the notable exception of REITs, which are legally mandated to distribute quarterly.


Conclusion: The Path to Passive Income

The conclusion is clear: earning a monthly income from the PSE is entirely possible. By strategically building a portfolio of dividend-paying stocks with varying payout schedules, you can create a reliable source of passive income. The key takeaway is to view the stock market not just for capital appreciation but also as a way to supplement or even replace your salary through dividend income.

While maintaining a day job, it is wise to strive for additional income streams like the stock market, always ensuring you do your own thorough research and due diligence before making any investment decisions.


More Financial Guides


Building a Monthly Income Stream from the Philippine Stock Exchange - Is It Possible?


The recent blocking of several international cryptocurrency exchanges in the Philippines has brought online security and accessibility to the forefront for many Filipinos. With local internet service providers (ISPs) now restricting access to certain websites, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is no longer just a tool for privacy—it's a necessity for maintaining an unrestricted online experience.



A reliable VPN can help you secure your connection, bypass geo-restrictions, and ensure that your online activities remain private. Here is a comprehensive guide to five of the best VPN services and apps that Filipinos can use.

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1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN consistently ranks as a top-tier VPN service, globally celebrated for its exceptional speed, security, and ease of use. It boasts a massive network of servers across 94 countries, which is essential for providing stable and fast connections, whether you are streaming, gaming, or simply Browse. The service is particularly effective at bypassing geo-restrictions, which can be crucial for accessing a wide range of international content and services.


Its commitment to user privacy is unwavering, backed by a strict no-logs policy, AES-256 bit encryption, and a kill switch that automatically cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops. ExpressVPN's user-friendly apps are available for nearly every device, from smartphones and laptops to routers, making it a powerful and convenient solution for all your digital needs.

Pricing (approximate):

  • Monthly: $12.95

  • 6-Months: $9.99/month (billed at $59.95)

  • 12-Months + 3 Months Free: $8.32/month (billed at $99.95)

Go to expressvpn.com to learn more.



2. NordVPN

NordVPN is another industry leader, widely recognized for its robust security features and extensive server network. With thousands of servers worldwide, including a strong presence in the Asia-Pacific region, NordVPN ensures that Filipinos can find nearby servers for optimal performance. The service is an excellent choice for security-conscious users, offering advanced features like Double VPN, which encrypts your connection twice, and CyberSec, which blocks malicious websites and ads.

Beyond its security, NordVPN is also a performance powerhouse, with a custom NordLynx protocol designed for blazing-fast speeds. It's a versatile service that is perfect for streaming, downloading, and general Browse. Its apps are visually appealing and easy to navigate, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced VPN users.

Pricing (approximate):

  • Monthly: $12.99

  • 1-Year Plan: $4.99/month (billed at $59.88)

  • 2-Year Plan: $3.39/month (billed at $81.36)


3. Proton VPN

Proton VPN is a unique service that places a paramount focus on privacy and transparency. Developed by the same team behind the secure ProtonMail, it operates under strict Swiss privacy laws, guaranteeing a clear and audited no-logs policy. For Filipinos who are particularly concerned about their data security, Proton VPN's Secure Core feature provides an extra layer of protection by routing your traffic through highly-secured servers in privacy-friendly countries before it leaves their network.


A key highlight is the availability of a free plan that comes with unlimited data, allowing you to secure your connection without any cost. While the free plan has a limited number of servers, it's an excellent way to experience the service's strong privacy features before considering a paid subscription for better speeds and a wider server selection.

Pricing (approximate):

  • Free Plan: Limited servers and speed.

  • Plus Plan: Starts around €4.99/month, with a discount for a 2-year commitment.

Visit proton.me to learn more.



4. Hide.me VPN

Based in Malaysia, Hide.me VPN has carved out a solid reputation for providing a fast, secure, and user-friendly service. Its location in Asia often translates to great connection speeds for Filipino users. The service is a strong contender for those who prioritize security and a clear, audited no-logs policy.

Hide.me's free plan is particularly notable for its generosity, offering unlimited data, which is a significant advantage over many other free VPNs. This allows you to browse securely for as long as you need, albeit with some limitations on server locations and speed. For those who need more, its premium plans are competitively priced and offer a wider range of features, including split tunneling and a larger server network.

Pricing (approximate):

  • Free Plan: Unlimited data, but with limited servers and one connection.

  • 1-Month Plan: $9.95

  • 1-Year Plan: $4.57/month (billed at $54.95)

  • 2-Year Plan: $2.69/month (billed at $64.56)

Visit hide.me to see more options.


5. Surfshark

Surfshark has quickly become a popular choice, thanks to its outstanding value and unique feature set. A single subscription allows for an unlimited number of simultaneous connections, making it the most budget-friendly option for families or individuals with multiple devices. Despite its affordable price, Surfshark does not skimp on features, offering a comprehensive suite of security tools.

The service includes powerful features like CleanWeb, an ad and malware blocker, and NoBorders mode, which is specifically designed to bypass internet restrictions in heavily censored regions. It also offers a fast and reliable connection with a wide network of servers. Surfshark strikes an excellent balance between affordability and high-end features, making it a fantastic choice for any Filipino looking to secure all their devices without breaking the bank.

Pricing (approximate):

  • Monthly: $12.95

  • 1-Year Plan: $3.99/month (billed at $47.88)

  • 2-Year Plan: $2.49/month (billed at $67.23)


Tips for Filipinos Choosing a VPN

When selecting a VPN, consider your specific needs. If your priority is streaming, look for a service with fast speeds and a strong track record of unblocking content (like ExpressVPN or NordVPN). If you need to protect multiple devices on a budget, Surfshark is an unbeatable choice. For those who value privacy above all else and want to start with a free option, Proton VPN or Hide.me are great starting points. Always remember that while a VPN can circumvent a lot of ISP-level blocking, it's not a silver bullet, and its effectiveness can vary.


Conclusion

As the digital landscape in the Philippines becomes more regulated, having a trustworthy VPN is more important than ever. These five services offer a range of features and pricing to suit every user, from the casual browser to the dedicated crypto trader. By investing in a quality VPN, you are not just buying a service; you are securing your right to a private, accessible, and unrestricted internet experience.

5 Best VPNs to Use in the Philippines


Filipino cryptocurrency traders are facing a significant disruption as major internet service providers (ISPs) in the Philippines have begun blocking access to several prominent international crypto exchange platforms. This decisive action follows a series of warnings from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding the unregistered operation of these platforms within the country.



Reports have surfaced throughout the day confirming that users of ISPs like PLDT and Smart are now unable to access the websites and applications of a growing list of international cryptocurrency exchanges.

This move comes after the SEC issued an Investor Alert against ten specific platforms, urging the public to refrain from investing or trading with them due to their lack of necessary licenses under the Philippines' new Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) Rules, which took effect on July 5, 2025.


The list of crypto trading websites reportedly no longer accessible includes:

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  • Binance
  • OKX
  • Bybit
  • MEXC
  • KuCoin
  • Bitget
  • Phemex
  • CoinEx
  • BitMart
  • Poloniex
  • Kraken

The SEC had previously warned that it may request the blocking of access to these websites and applications as part of its efforts to protect Filipino investors. The regulator emphasized the risks associated with using unregistered platforms, including the potential for fraud, loss of funds, and lack of legal recourse for investors.




This crackdown represents a significant escalation in the Philippine government's regulatory efforts within the cryptocurrency space. The SEC has been actively working to ensure that all entities facilitating crypto transactions within the country are properly registered and compliant with local laws. The earlier successful geo-blocking of Binance served as a clear indication of the regulator's intent to enforce these rules.

While access to these major international platforms is now restricted, the SEC has highlighted several registered local exchanges that Filipinos can utilize for their cryptocurrency trading activities. These compliant platforms include:



  • PDAX: Accessible via both web and mobile applications.

  • CoinsPH: Recognized as the largest Philippine-based cryptocurrency exchange.

  • GCrypto: Integrated within the GCash application and powered by PDAX on its back-end.

  • MayaCrypto: Available on the Maya platform, although currently without send and receive functionalities.

The blocking of these international exchanges serves as a stark reminder for cryptocurrency investors in the Philippines to exercise caution and prioritize trading on platforms that have secured the necessary licenses from the local regulatory authorities.


The SEC continues to urge the public to be vigilant and to only engage with entities that operate within the legal framework to ensure investor protection. The "crackdown has begun," signaling a new era of stricter regulation within the Philippine cryptocurrency market.


More Financial Guides

Philippine ISPs Block Major International Exchanges


Did you know you can now cash in to your Maya wallet using your credit card—with zero convenience fees? That’s right—Maya is running a promo that allows users to cash in using Visa credit cards without being charged the usual 2%–3.5% service fee. I tried it myself using my BDO Visa credit card, and here’s everything you need to know before trying it yourself.



What Is the Maya Visa Credit Card Cash-In Promo?

Maya is currently offering a No Convenience Fee promo when you cash in using any Visa credit card, directly through the app. This is a major win for users who want to fund their Maya wallet without bank transfers, InstaPay, or trips to physical stores. You can now top up directly from your credit line at no additional cost—if you do it right.


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Promo Period

As of writing (August 2025), the promo is ongoing, but like all promos, it may be time-limited. Check the Maya app announcements or their social media pages to see if it’s still active.





My Personal Experience with BDO Visa Credit Card

I tested the process myself using my BDO Visa credit card, and here’s how it went:

  • ✅ The transaction pushed through instantly

  • ✅ I was not charged any convenience fee

  • ✅ The amount was credited to my Maya wallet in real time

  • ✅ It worked as long as the amount was under ₱5,000

However, there were a few key limitations:

  • ⚠️ Maximum of two transactions under ₱5,000 were allowed per day

  • ⚠️ My attempts to cash in ₱5,000 or higher were declined

  • ⚠️ BDO only allowed a total of ₱9,998 (₱4,999 × 2) in one day

So if you’re using a BDO Visa credit card, you can cash in up to ₱9,998 daily using this method—as long as you split the transactions.



Important: Check for Quasi-Cash Fees

While Maya waives their own convenience fee during the promo, some banks treat wallet top-ups as “quasi-cash transactions”, which may trigger cash advance fees or interest charges.



How to Avoid This


Check your bank's policy before using their credit card

Call your bank and ask: “Do you charge quasi-cash or cash advance fees for wallet top-ups?”

Use banks that treat Maya top-ups like regular purchases (BDO Visa seems to be one of them)

Banks known for quasi-cash fees include some foreign banks, fintech cards, and even certain local Mastercard issuers. Visa cards seem to work better overall for this promo.

Apply for a BDO Credit Card now!


How to Cash In to Maya Wallet Using Your Credit Card

Here’s the full step-by-step process:

  1. Open the Maya app

  2. Tap “Cash In” from the home screen

  3. Select “Credit/Debit Card”

  4. Tap “Link a New Card” and enter your Visa credit card details

  5. Set your desired amount (keep it under ₱5,000 per transaction)

  6. Confirm the payment and complete any OTP verification from your bank

  7. Wait for the top-up to reflect—should be instant

You’ll receive confirmation from both Maya and your credit card provider.




Reminders Before You Try It


💡 Only Visa credit cards are eligible for the no-fee promo (not Mastercards)

🔐 Make sure your card supports online transactions and 3D Secure

⚠️ Some banks might decline transactions flagged as wallet top-ups

📈 If you exceed daily limits, you may need to wait 24 hours before trying again



Final Thoughts

This Maya Visa credit card cash-in promo is a smart way to add funds to your wallet for free, especially if you're investing through DragonFi Lite, paying bills, or sending money. Just be mindful of your card’s policies and transaction limits to avoid any surprise fees.

If you’re using a BDO Visa card like me, it’s a safe bet—but always start with small amounts and monitor your credit card statement after your first few transactions.


More Financial Guides


How to Cash In to Maya Wallet Using a Credit Card (with No Fees!)


The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has introduced a new, reduced overnight parking rate for verified passengers and other legitimate airport users, effective Friday, August 1.



The move, announced by the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) in a Facebook post, aims to make parking more accessible and to ensure that parking facilities are efficiently managed and available for those who genuinely use the airport.


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Under the new system, verified passengers who park their vehicles at any of the NAIA terminals (Terminal 1, 2, or 3) will be able to avail of a 50% discount on the standard overnight rate.



To qualify for the reduced rate, passengers must keep their parking ticket and boarding pass from their trip. Upon their return, they need to present both documents at the validation counter. Once verified, they will be charged a discounted rate of ₱600 for overnight parking.



While this new rate is still higher than the original ₱300 overnight rate, it is a significant reduction from the ₱1,200 rate that the NNIC implemented last October.



The NNIC stated that the new system will help to keep parking slots available and convenient for NAIA's intended users.



NAIA Slashes Overnight Parking Fee to ₱600 for Validated Passengers


If you're a Maya user hunting for higher savings interest rates, good news: up to 15% p.a. Maya Savings boost is still active as of August 1, 2025 — and yes, the Lazada and Grab "hacks" still work.



This savings trick is perfect for those who want to make the most of Maya's tiered incentive system without overspending or relying on unclear promos.

Here's a breakdown of how it works, how you can unlock up to 15%, and a step-by-step guide on using Lazada to do it — hassle-free and cost-effective.


Open Maya App

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Breakdown: Up to 15% p.a. for Select* Maya Users

Maya’s tiered interest rates are based on your spending behavior. Here’s the current setup:


Requirement Boosted Interest (on Savings Balance)


  • ✅ Base Rate 3.5% p.a. on all balances

  • ✅ Spend P35,000 via QRPh / Maya Card +6.5% p.a.

  • ✅ Spend P40,000 via Landers Maya Credit Card +3% p.a.

  • ✅ Spend P2,000 via Maya Easy Credit +2% p.a.

Total Possible Up to 15% p.a.

Note: Promos and boosted rates are for SELECT users — Maya sometimes targets based on account activity.




How to Easily Unlock the First 10% Using Lazada (Updated August 2025)

One of the simplest and most cost-efficient ways to unlock the 6.5% QRPh/Card Spend boost is through Lazada cash-ins using your Maya Wallet and card. Here's how:


Step-by-Step Lazada Hack



1. Link Your Maya Wallet/Card to Lazada


Go to Lazada > Wallet > Cash In > Cards

Add your Maya Virtual or Physical Card


2. Fund Your Maya Wallet


Make sure your Maya Wallet has at least ₱35,000. This is the spending requirement for the 6.5% interest boost.


3. Start a Cash-In on Lazada


Choose Cash In via Linked Card (your Maya card).

Enter ₱35,000 as the amount.


4. Wait for the Confirmation


Maya will send you an SMS confirmation once the cash-in is successful.


5. Get the 10% Interest


Within a few days, you should see your interest rate jump to 10% (3.5% base + 6.5% QRPh/card boost).


6. Transfer Back to Maya


Use Lazada's 1-time free bank transfer to move the ₱35,000 back to your Maya Wallet or other e-wallets.

This closes the loop — no actual net spending, but you still unlock the interest.



Why Lazada?

Cash-in is free, and they offer a 1-time bank transfer out — no fees, no hassle.



GrabPay Variant Still Works Too

Similar steps apply to GrabPay, where you can load funds via your Maya card, then cash out or use them — also counting toward the required spend. However, Lazada remains the preferred option due to ease of transfers and fee-free setup.




Final Notes

This technique works as of August 1, 2025, but Maya may update terms anytime.

These boosts are technically spend-based, so while you're moving money around, the system counts it as eligible "spend".

Always verify via the Maya app or SMS that your boosts are active.


More Financial Guides

Yes, the 15% Maya Savings Hack Still Works as of August 1, 2025 — Here's How (Lazada & Grab Edition)


I am excited to announce a special, limited-time giveaway that will make your Lazada cart a whole lot lighter. For today only, July 29, 2025, you have the chance to snag a FREE P500 Lazada voucher!



This isn't just any discount; it's a fantastic opportunity to get P500 off your next purchase on a wide array of products available on Lazada, NO MINIMUM PURCHASE REQUIRED. But you'll need to act fast, because once today is over, this exclusive offer disappears.

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Your Chance to Save: Here's What You Need to Know

This P500 voucher is designed to give you an immediate boost to your shopping budget. Imagine getting that item you've been eyeing with a significant discount!

Key details to remember about your FREE P500 voucher:



Today Only! This voucher is valid for use on July 29, 2025, and will expire at the end of the day. Don't miss out!

One-Time Use: The voucher can be applied to a single transaction. Make sure to use it on an order where you'll get the most value.

Exclusions Apply: Please note that this voucher is not valid on LazMart purchases. It also cannot be used for any digital products (e.g., mobile load, game credits, e-vouchers from other merchants). It's best used for physical goods from regular Lazada sellers.


How to Claim Your P500 Lazada Voucher

Getting your hands on this P500 discount is simple. To access and apply this exclusive voucher to your Lazada order:


Clicking the link will guide you on how to activate the voucher for your account. Once claimed, simply proceed to checkout on Lazada, and if your cart meets the voucher's terms (excluding LazMart and digital products), the P500 discount will be applied!



Don't Wait – Shop Now!

This is your moment to enjoy a significant saving on your Lazada shopping. Whether you're looking for new gadgets, fashion items, home essentials, or gifts, P500 off can make a big difference.

Remember, this offer is strictly for today, July 29, 2025. Set your alarms, prepare your shopping list, and click the link above to claim your FREE P500 Lazada voucher before it's gone! Happy shopping!

I Am Giving Away FREE P500 Lazada Voucher Today! [ LIMITED ONLY ]


Commuters on Metro Manila's busiest railway can now experience a faster, more convenient way to travel. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) today officially launched cashless payment options for the MRT-3, marking a significant upgrade in the urban transit system and positioning it as a pioneer in seamless payment technology.



DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon led the unveiling at the MRT-3 Ayala Station, personally demonstrating the ease of the new system. He highlighted that commuters can now simply tap their debit or credit cards directly at the gates or, for e-wallet users, generate a QR code from their mobile apps for scanning.


"There is no additional fare here," Secretary Dizon assured commuters. "The system is, whatever is deducted from your GCash, your credit card, your debit card, it is the same as if you bought a single journey ticket."


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This innovative payment setup is touted by the transport chief as the first of its kind globally, capable of accepting both Near Field Communication (NFC) taps and QR codes from a single terminal. The DOTr also announced plans to extend these same cashless options to LRT-1 and LRT-2 lines in the near future, with the support of GCash and RCBC.



How to Use GCash at MRT-3 Gates

For the millions of Filipinos who rely on e-wallets, paying for their MRT-3 ride using the GCash app is now remarkably straightforward:

STEP 1 - Open your GCash app: Ensure you have the latest version installed on your smartphone.


STEP 2 - Look for "Commute" and tap it: This dedicated icon simplifies access to the QR ticketing feature.

STEP 3 - A QR Code will appear: This unique code is your digital ticket.

STEP 4 - Tap or scan your QR Code at an MRT-3 entry gate: Simply present your phone screen with the QR code to the designated scanner.


STEP 5 - The gate will open: Proceed through the turnstile.

STEP 6 - Do the same at the exit gate: The process is identical for exiting the station, ensuring your fare is correctly calculated.


Important Note: Your GCash account must have a minimum balance of ₱28 to successfully use the Commute QR code feature. For added convenience, users can also download a copy of their Commute QR for subsequent gate uses.


Wide Range of Participating Banks

Beyond GCash, the DOTr confirmed a broad list of banks supporting the MRT-3's new cashless payment method, offering flexibility for cardholders:



  • GCash: Visa (Debit), QR Code
  • Landbank: Mastercard (Debit/Credit), Visa (Debit)
  • BPI: Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • BDO: Mastercard (Credit), Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • HSBC: Visa (Debit)
  • GOTyme: Visa (Debit)
  • Union Bank: Visa (Debit)
  • RCBC: Mastercard (Debit/Credit), Visa (Debit)
  • Metrobank: Mastercard (Credit)
  • Security Bank: Mastercard (Credit)
  • Maya: Visa (Debit/Credit)
  • Chinabank: Mastercard (Credit)


This expansion of payment options is expected to significantly reduce queuing times, improve efficiency, and enhance the overall commuting experience for MRT-3 passengers, ushering in a new era of modern urban transportation in the Philippines.

You Can Now Pay For Your MRT-3 Ride Using Your GCash App!


The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced on Monday that classes at all levels will be suspended in several parts of Luzon on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, due to persistent heavy rains brought by the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat).



The following areas will have no classes:

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Metro Manila

Zambales

Bataan

Pampanga

Bulacan

Cavite

Batangas

Rizal

Pangasinan

Tarlac

Occidental Mindoro


Rainy Day Essentials

Don't let the gloomy weather dampen your spirits! Here are some rainy day essentials to keep you cozy and prepared:





According to the DILG, the suspension was made in coordination with local government units (LGUs) and based on advisories from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), as intense rainfall continues to pose risks of flooding and landslides.



Public Advisory


The public is advised to stay alert for further announcements from local authorities and PAGASA. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor weather updates through official government channels.



Classes may resume once weather conditions improve and areas are deemed safe. Schools, parents, and students are encouraged to prioritize safety and preparedness during this time.


Classes Suspended in Several Luzon Areas on July 22 Due to Habagat Rains


Facing sky-high last-minute flight prices for that spontaneous getaway? A new partnership aims to provide Filipinos with an affordable and scenic alternative.



Travelers can now book last-minute ferry trips to some of the country's most beloved beach destinations, thanks to a new collaboration between Klook and 2GO Travel.

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This exciting partnership offers a solution for those yearning for a spontaneous vacation without breaking the bank. Travelers can now secure affordable, last-minute ferry tickets to picturesque destinations including:




The booking flexibility is a key highlight, catering to spontaneous travel plans. Tickets to Cebu can be booked up to 7 days before the scheduled trip, while routes to Coron, Puerto Princesa, or Caticlan offer even shorter lead times, allowing bookings up to just 3 days before departure.



For groups looking for an elevated experience without the hefty price tag, the new offering features a special "Last-Minute Travel Hack." Groups of four are encouraged to book the Business Suite, which allows them to enjoy the entire room to themselves, complete with an amazing sea view. This private experience is available for as low as ₱2,427 per person. An added bonus? Tickets for the Business Suite already come with meals included, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free journey.





This collaboration aims to make domestic travel more accessible and enjoyable, transforming last-minute travel from a budget-busting dilemma into an exciting, affordable adventure. Travelers are encouraged to visit Klook to explore their options and embark on their spontaneous Philippine getaway.


More Travel News in the Philippines


You Can Now Book 2GO Ferry Tickets on Klook!