Sending money home has always been a lifeline for millions of Filipino families. But now, more than ever, Pinoys are embracing digital remittance apps to send and receive money faster, safer, and more conveniently. According to Visa’s Money Travels: 2025 Digital Remittances Adoption Report, the Philippines is setting the pace for digital adoption in Asia Pacific’s $905 billion remittance industry.
The Philippines: A Top Digital Remittance Adopter
Visa’s study surveyed 44,000 senders and receivers across 20 countries, and the results put Filipinos at the forefront of the shift to digital.
- 74% of Filipinos send money digitally
- 66% receive funds via digital channels
- 73% prefer digital payments for speed
- 45% trust it for safety and privacy
Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Philippines Country Manager, emphasized the country’s key role in the region:
“The Philippines accounts for more than 60% of total inbound remittance transactions in Asia Pacific, underscoring our strong position as a driver for regional growth. The shift to digital fosters financial inclusion, allowing more people and businesses to manage money securely.”
Beyond Inbound: Filipinos Expand Outbound Money Movement
While the Philippines is well-known as a top inbound remittance destination, more Filipinos are also fueling outbound transfers, particularly in business-to-business payments.
A previous Visa report showed that 70% of SMEs in the Philippines need to purchase goods and services from abroad, while 60% are interested in sending money overseas—highlighting how remittances are evolving from personal to business-driven use.
Remittance Pain Points: High Fees Still a Concern
Despite the rise of digital transfers, fees remain a major frustration.
- 43% of Filipino senders and 30% of receivers cited app fees as a pain point—the highest in Asia Pacific.
- For traditional physical remittances, 45% of senders and 29% of receivers raised concerns about high charges.
This highlights the urgent need for more affordable and transparent digital solutions.
Surprising Insight: Seniors Lead in Digital Adoption
Interestingly, digital remittance apps are not just for younger generations. In fact, 100% of surveyed Filipinos aged 65 and above plan to send money digitally, compared to 72–75% among younger age brackets.
This shows that older Pinoys are embracing fintech tools as long as they are reliable and user-friendly.
Visa’s Partnerships to Power the Future
To support this digital shift, Visa has partnered with USSC Money Services, Inc. (UMSI) and Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC). Through Visa Direct, Filipinos can now enjoy real-time transfers straight to Visa cards, accounts, and wallets worldwide.
Navarro summed it up:
“Speed, security, and convenience are no longer optional—they’re expected. Together with our partners, Visa expands financial inclusion by making remittances efficient, reliable, and affordable.”
For millions of Filipinos, sending money home is more than a transaction—it’s an act of love. With digital tools making remittances faster and safer, the Philippines is leading Asia Pacific into a future where financial inclusion is within everyone’s reach.
If you’re sending money abroad or receiving remittances, try digital apps that partner with trusted institutions like Visa. You’ll save time, enjoy better security, and experience seamless transfers.