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Advocates Philippines
Iloilo's Public Markets Go Digital With Paleng-QR Ph Plus
Photo credit: BSP
Iloilo Province is taking a big step toward a cashless future. On Monday, officials launched Paleng-QR Ph Plus, a program designed to make digital payments easier and more accessible in the province's public markets, public utility vehicles, and other businesses.
The launch event at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol was led by Iloilo Vice Governor Nathalie Ann F. Debuque, representing Governor Arthur R. Defensor, Jr., alongside Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Monetary Board Member Benjamin E. Diokno and BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.
Vice Governor Debuque highlighted the importance of local support for the initiative. "The Paleng-QR Ph Plus program marks an important step in bringing digital financial services closer to every household and every business in Iloilo," she said. She also mentioned that the provincial government is ready to craft and adopt ordinances to support the adoption of QR Ph, ensuring both small entrepreneurs and consumers are protected. "We aim to ensure that no barangay is left behind in the shift to a more cash-lite and financially inclusive Iloilo," she added.
BSP Deputy Governor Romulo-Puyat echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the practical benefits for everyday citizens. "Now, life in the market and at the terminal will be even easier because of Paleng-QR Ph Plus," she said in Filipino. "There's no need to carry cash. Just scan, pay the exact amount, and go. No more change, no more hassle. It's also safer. The payment goes straight to your account. And because you have an account, it's easier to save, easier to get a loan for a business, and you have more protection for your family."
To ensure the program's success, the Iloilo provincial government has already issued an executive order encouraging all municipalities to promote the use of QR Ph. The Paleng-QR Ph Plus initiative is a joint effort between the BSP and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and it's a key part of the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion 2022-2028. As of late September, the program has been adopted by 207 local government units across the Philippines.
The launch event at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol was led by Iloilo Vice Governor Nathalie Ann F. Debuque, representing Governor Arthur R. Defensor, Jr., alongside Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Monetary Board Member Benjamin E. Diokno and BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.
Vice Governor Debuque highlighted the importance of local support for the initiative. "The Paleng-QR Ph Plus program marks an important step in bringing digital financial services closer to every household and every business in Iloilo," she said. She also mentioned that the provincial government is ready to craft and adopt ordinances to support the adoption of QR Ph, ensuring both small entrepreneurs and consumers are protected. "We aim to ensure that no barangay is left behind in the shift to a more cash-lite and financially inclusive Iloilo," she added.
BSP Deputy Governor Romulo-Puyat echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the practical benefits for everyday citizens. "Now, life in the market and at the terminal will be even easier because of Paleng-QR Ph Plus," she said in Filipino. "There's no need to carry cash. Just scan, pay the exact amount, and go. No more change, no more hassle. It's also safer. The payment goes straight to your account. And because you have an account, it's easier to save, easier to get a loan for a business, and you have more protection for your family."
To ensure the program's success, the Iloilo provincial government has already issued an executive order encouraging all municipalities to promote the use of QR Ph. The Paleng-QR Ph Plus initiative is a joint effort between the BSP and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and it's a key part of the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion 2022-2028. As of late September, the program has been adopted by 207 local government units across the Philippines.
Sep 22, 2025
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