The municipality of Bongabong has debuted a national cashless payment program, becoming the first in Oriental Mindoro province, and one of the pioneers in Mimaropa region, to adopt the system for its public market and local transportation.

The “Paleng-QR PH Plus” program, a joint project of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), uses QR codes recognized as the national standard for transactions.

The program will expand digital payments among market vendors, tricycle drivers and consumers.

The launch event at the Bongabong Public Market was attended by Municipal Administrator Maynard Gabayno, municipal councilors and officials from the BSP and financial service providers.

The central bank said the program is in line with a nationwide push for digital payments.

In mid-November, more than 150 local governments had launched or adopted policies for the program, with expansion accelerating into 2025.

Bongabong LGU officials said the program will improve financial inclusion and foster economic growth.

The national government has expressed full support for the program and is encouraging agencies to educate the public on using e-wallets.

photos courtesy of LGU Bongabong