DOT, BPI, Visa sign partnership to improve tourists' access to cash

Tourists will have better access to their funds while in the country with the signing of a partnership agreement among the Department of Tourism, the Bank of Philippine Islands and Visa. "The DOT and BPI are determined to make traveling not only fun but also seamless," said Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. at the signing on Wednesday. The partnership allows DOT to promote travel destinations in more than 800 branches of BPI across the country and abroad. It also gives resorts and local tourism companies access to affordable financial options in order to upgrade their services. "We have always believed that private enterprise plays a key role in the Philippines' development," said BPI president and CEO Aurelio Montinola III at the same event. Also under the partnership, BPI will set up more ATMs and Point of Sale terminals so tourists can transact, access their funds and pay 24/7 while traveling. At the same time, BPI and Visa Card will issue a "More Fun Prepaid Visa Card" to allow customers to load their cards at electronic channels, receive discounts and perks and use the card worldwide where Visa is accepted. — BM, GMA News