Filipinos are leading Asia Pacific in adopting digital remittances, according to Visa’s Money Travels: 2025 Digital Remittances Adoption Report. The study surveyed 44,000 respondents across 20 countries, including the Philippines.
The report shows that 74% of Filipinos now send money digitally, while 66% receive funds through digital channels. About 73% said digital payments are the fastest way to access money. Nearly half also see digital transfers as secure and private.
Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Philippines Country Manager, noted that the country accounts for more than 60% of inbound remittance transactions in Asia Pacific. He added that this shift fosters financial inclusion by giving more Filipinos access to secure digital payment systems.
The Philippines is also expanding its role in outbound remittances, particularly for B2B payments. In a past Visa study, 70% of SMEs reported sourcing goods and services abroad, and 60% expressed interest in sending payments overseas.
High fees remain a concern. At least 43% of Filipinos sending money through apps raised fees as an issue, while 30% of receivers agreed. For physical remittances, 45% of senders and 29% of receivers also cited fees as a pain point.
Older Filipinos are also driving digital adoption. All respondents aged 65 and above said they plan to send money digitally, higher than other age groups surveyed.
Visa continues to expand solutions for Filipinos through partnerships with USSC Money Services, Inc. (UMSI) and Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC). With Visa Direct, consumers can send funds instantly to cards, accounts, and wallets worldwide.
“The shift in remittance trends shows speed, security, and convenience are no longer optional, they are expected. With our partners, we are focused on driving financial inclusion through efficient, reliable, and affordable solutions,” Navarro said.
