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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DOT, RCBC bring banking access to remote tourism sites

DOT, RCBC bring banking access to remote tourism sites

Published May 7, 2025 12:00 pm

At A Glance

  • Under the agreement, ATM Go terminals will be installed in DOT-accredited establishments and key tourism areas
  • According to the DOT, the initiative will enhance the tourism value chain by enabling easier cash access for transport providers, small business owners, and family-run enterprises catering to tourists.

Remote and underserved tourist areas will soon gain improved access to banking services as the Department of Tourism (DOT) partners with Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) for the nationwide deployment of ATM Go terminals.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco and RCBC Deputy CEO and incoming President Reginaldo B. Cariaso formalized the initiative through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on May 6 at the DOT Central Office in Makati City.

Under the agreement, ATM Go terminals will be installed in DOT-accredited establishments and key tourism areas—including primary and secondary gateways, seaports, and Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs)—to provide reliable cash withdrawal services for local and foreign visitors.

The terminals, which accept VISA and Mastercard debit and credit cards, will be operated by RCBC’s partner micro-enterprises, helping support local vendors and strengthen community-based tourism.

“This initiative is not just about placing kapitbahay ATMs—it is about empowering tourism workers and small businesses in remote areas to take part in the formal economy,” Frasco said.

She added that expanding financial services in these areas aligns with the Marcos administration’s digitalization thrust and commitment to inclusive, community-driven development.

Frasco described the project as a “transitional but strategic” effort bridging the gap between traditional banking and a fully digital economy by reaching Filipinos in areas where financial access remains limited.

According to the DOT, the initiative will enhance the tourism value chain by enabling easier cash access for transport providers, small business owners, and family-run enterprises catering to tourists.

ATM Go, the country’s largest grassroots-based banking network, operates in areas typically underserved by traditional financial institutions.

The collaboration forms part of DOT’s broader push under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to build a tourism sector that is accessible, connected, and equitable.

Tourism has posted record growth since Marcos assumed office, with the Philippine Statistics Authority reporting 16.4 million jobs supported by the industry, along with higher tourist spending and longer stays.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas also cited a net trade surplus in services—the country’s first in 15 years—driven largely by rising tourism receipts.

Related Tags

dot rcbc atm go mou signing visa
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