BPI brings Google Pay to debit cards

Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is giving its customers a faster way to pay with their smartphones as BPI Debit Mastercard holders can now link their cards to Google Wallet and use Google Pay for everyday purchases.

Rolled out on April 15, the service allows Android users with NFC-enabled smartphones to make contactless payments without having to pull out a physical card or open the BPI app.

The new option complements BPI’s existing payment channels, including physical cards and QR payments through the BPI app. Customers can use Google Pay at stores with contactless terminals, as well as participating mobile applications and websites that offer Google Pay at checkout.

BPI Head of Consumer Banking Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go said the service is designed to make routine transactions more convenient while maintaining security.

“We want our customers to experience the ultimate blend of convenience and modern lifestyle freedom,” Go said. “By linking their BPI Debit Mastercard to Google Wallet, our millions of Android users can turn their phones into a secure, all-in-one payment tool. It’s about making everyday purchases simpler, faster, and seamlessly integrated into your routine, backed by the trusted security of BPI.”

To enroll, customers need to open the Google Wallet app on an NFC-enabled Android phone, select “Add a card” and choose “Payment card.” They can scan their BPI Debit Mastercard using the phone’s camera or manually enter the card information.

After accepting the Google Pay and BPI terms and conditions, customers must complete card verification through a one-time password (OTP) sent by SMS. Once verified, the card can be used through Google Pay.

BPI said transactions are protected by multiple layers of security, including safeguards designed to prevent merchants from receiving customers’ actual card details.

The bank, however, reminded customers to remain vigilant against fraud and never disclose their OTPs, PINs, passwords, CVVs or other account credentials, even to individuals claiming to represent BPI.

The bank said legitimate BPI representatives will never ask customers to provide such confidential information.

The addition of Google Pay expands BPI’s digital payment ecosystem as more Filipinos turn to smartphones and contactless transactions for everyday purchases, from buying coffee and groceries to paying for goods online.

BPI said the service forms part of its continuing effort to make digital payment technologies more accessible, practical and secure for its customers.