The City of Antipolo in Rizal launched the Paleng-QR Ph Plus program last week to boost digital payments in its public markets, public transportation, and business establishments.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat and former Antipolo City Mayor Andrea Ynares, who represented Mayor Casimiro Ynares III, led the launching ceremony at the City Mall of Antipolo. Rizal Governor Nina Ricci Ynares also joined the launch.
Paleng-QR Ph Plus is a joint initiative of the BSP and the Department of the Interior and Local Government that encourages the use of Quick Response (QR) Ph, the national standard for QR code technology. This technology provides a secure, convenient, and efficient way for merchants and customers to make and receive payments.
BSP Governor Eli Remolona, Jr., in a recorded message, said, “By using the QR Ph codes in daily payment transactions, business owners and their customers can expand their digital financial footprint. This will give them access to a wider range of financial services, such as credit, savings, insurance, and investments.”
“Isa po sa mga naging tugon ng Pamahalaang Siyudad ng Antipolo [noong kasagsagan ng COVID-19 pandemic] ang paghikayat sa mga tao na tangkilikin ang cashless o no-contact, digital modes of transactions. Kami po ay masaya, at kasama ang Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, sa pag-iingat sa perang pinaghirapan. It is with great joy and honor that we welcome Paleng-QR Ph Plus program in our city,” former Mayor Ynares said.
Rizal Governor Ynares also expressed support for the program.
The City Government of Antipolo passed an ordinance in 2020, requiring all business establishments in the city to adopt alternative modes of payment. In 2022, the resolution was amended by the Sangguniang Panlungsod to include Paleng-QR as one of the alternative payment options.
In line with the BSP’s broader efforts to promote financial inclusion, BSP Deputy Governor Romulo-Puyat also encouraged Antipoleños to open a Basic Deposit Account (BDA).
“Isandaang piso lang, pwede nang mag-open ng savings account. Walang dormancy fee, walang maintenance fee. Sana ma-encourage natin ang lahat na magkaroon ng [bank] account. The BSP continues to advocate for the interest of our financial consumers,” Romulo-Puyat said.
