Consumers and commuters are seen to benefit from the Paleng-QR PH Program Plus, a cashless payment program for markets and local transportation fares that the The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) launched in Ilocos Sur.
A single national QR code will be used for digital payments, even across different banks or wallet providers.
“Una, safety, cashless payments are sanitary, reducing health risks for all of us. Pangalawa, convenience, effortless and transactions dahil makakapagbayad ka na ng eksaktong halaga sa pamamagitan lang ng pag scan ng QR code. Pangatlo, security sa pekeng pera,“ Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Deputy Governor of the Regional Operations and Advocacy Sector at BSP, said.
Customers will only need to scan the QR code provided by the BSP, using any QR code scanner from their bank or e-money accounts when paying.
Tricycles and public market stalls will have a sticker posted in their stall or vehicle, ready for scanning for payments.
BSP expects local government units (LGUs) to pass ordinances to encourage vendors and public transport drivers to accept digital payments.
LGUs will also assist in opening transaction accounts such as bank accounts and e-wallets and organize "Account Opening Day" events.
"This will give them access to a wider range of financial services such as credits, savings, insurance, and investment,” Dr. Eli Remolona, Jr., Chairman of the Monetary Board and Governor of BSP, said.
“In this rapidly evolving world it is imperative to embrace innovation to drive progress and prosperity,” Ryan Singson, Ilocos Sur Vice Governor, said.
Some tricycle drivers like Noel Fontejon, who are already familiar with using e-wallets, support the program.
“[Maganda kasi] minsan kasi walang barya [yung pasahero] sa pamasahe nila. [Kung sa palengke], mahirap dyan kasi nagtatawaran pa sa palengke,” Fontejon said.
Meanwhile, some Ilocanos had the opportunity to exchange their old and damaged banknotes during the BSP's Piso Caravan event.
