SINGAPORE–Filipino travellers 5 years ago were faced with the dilemma of having to buy US dollars prior to their international flights. They then convert these to the currency of their destination. Then convert again to Philippine peso upon their return.
Fast forward to 2024 and this practice is no longer a must. All one needs is a credit or debit card.
Or, GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app.
GCash recently joined forces with global payment leader Visa to revolutionize payments for all Filipinos with the launch of the new GCash Card.
This innovative payment card, seamlessly linked to users’ GCash wallets, is set to transform the way Filipinos make payments, offering convenience, more deals, discounts, and access to a network of almost 100 million merchants across 200 countries.
With the launch of the GCash Card, Filipinos can now have access to opportunities and possibilities of having another cashless payment option wherever they may be.
Paul Albano, general manager for GCash International, said in an interview the partnership will benefit consumers who have no bank accounts or documents typically needed to apply for a credit card or those who have informal sources of income like freelancers and independent professionals with micro or small enterprises.
“(This is good news) for outbound travellers coming from the Philippines,” Albano said.
For the third consecutive year, GCash returned to the prestigious Singapore Fintech Festival (SFF) to showcase its commitment to driving financial inclusion and innovation on a global scale.
Albano said the GCash Card gives travelers the advantage of real time Forex charging at low exchange rates and no service fees. This enables travelers to enjoy hassle-free shopping and dining experiences wherever they may be.
“We pride ourselves of having no service fees and the lowest FX across the countries that Filipinos would travel to,” Albano said.
No GCash card yet? No worries. Albano said that aside from the GCash Card, users can also scan and pay abroad using the GCash app.
“We’ve recently gone live in China. We are currently online in 47 countries,” Albano said.
Putting it to a test
Singapore is a city that blends the ultra-modern with rich cultural heritage, where cutting-edge architecture sits alongside vibrant hawker centers, and luxury shopping experiences coexist with lush green spaces.
For this three-day adventure, I decided to challenge myself: no cash.
Armed only with my GCash Card and my GCash app, I ventured across Singapore, discovering how easy it is to navigate this city while tapping, swiping, and paying contactlessly.
Upon arriving at Changi Airport, don’t look for means to go to the city center just yet.
First stop? The Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, located at the Jewel at Changi. Be mesmerized by the cascading water and the convenience of a cashless ecosystem everywhere.
Every store, every kiosk, and even the cafes accepted payments via debit card, whether for souvenirs or a quick coffee. Grab a refreshing cup of Singaporean iced coffee, the kopi (using my debit card, of course), and took in the beauty of the space.
After wandering through the lush indoor gardens of Jewel, make your way to the Canopy Park, where one can venture through a hedge maze, take a stroll on the sky nets, and walk on the suspended bridge—all of which are easily accessible with card payments.
Then proceed to your hotel of choice, via a ride-hailing car, a taxi, a bus or a train—all of which accept card payments or QR codes.
On the second day, visit one of the most iconic landmarks in Singapore: Marina Bay Sands. The hotel, casino, and observation deck offer unparalleled views of the city. There are interactive kiosks where one could use cards to purchase tickets for the deck and enjoy the 360-degree views of Singapore, from the towering skyscrapers to the serene bay below.
From Marina Bay Sands, it was a short walk to Gardens by the Bay, another absolute must-see destination.
Just a stone’s throw from here is the iconic Merlion, Singapore’s national symbol. Sitting right by Marina Bay, the majestic half-lion, half-fish creature spouts water into the bay, offering a perfect photo opportunity. Nearby are numerous vendors offering souvenirs, all of whom accept debit cards.
In the evening, make your way to Lau Pa Sat, a historic hawker center.
Known for its charming Victorian-style architecture, Lau Pa Sat is a hub of local delicacies–Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, satay, and roti prata from various stalls, paying for everything with a debit card.
Even in this bustling food paradise, the convenience of cashless transactions was impressive. The mix of street food and technology was truly a modern Singapore experience.
For the final day, visit Singapore’s famous shopping scene along Orchard Road. With everything from high-end international brands to local boutiques, Orchard Road is the beating heart of Singapore’s retail world.
Every store, whether it was luxury or fast fashion, had digital payment options. I picked up a few souvenirs, from designer accessories to uniquely Singaporean items, and everything was charged effortlessly to my debit card.
Then go back to your hotel, pack your bags, and proceed to the airport. Forgot something? No worries. Changi has everything one needs.
Intertwined with technology
Spending three days in Singapore without needing cash was surprisingly easy. From the futuristic shopping malls to the traditional hawker centers, every aspect of the city seemed designed for convenience and accessibility. Singapore’s infrastructure and culture are deeply intertwined with technology, making it a dream destination for anyone who prefers cashless transactions.
Whether it was shopping at Orchard Road, enjoying a meal at Lau Pa Sat, or exploring the awe-inspiring Gardens by the Bay, one will never found himself in need of cash.
For anyone looking to visit this incredible city in the future, leave the cash behind, bring your GCash card and enjoy everything Singapore has to offer with a simple tap or swipe.
GCash is the Philippines’ leading Finance Super App. Through the GCash App, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills via partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones.
