Mayor Eric Olivarez at the launching of "Paleng-QR PH Plus” program (Photo from Parañaque PIO)

The Parañaque City government officially introduced the Paleng-QR Ph Plus program, an initiative by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) that promotes the use of digital payments in public markets and local transportation.

The launching of the program was held at the La Huerta Public Market. It was led by Parañaque City Mayo Eric Olivarez with City Administrator Atty. Voltaire Dela Cruz, BSP’s Financial Inclusion and Consumer Empowerment Sub-sector and Regional Operations and Advocacy Sector Managing Director Atty. Charina B. De Vera-Yap, and Payment and Currency Development Sub-Sector Assistant Director Redentor Bancod.

Olivarez said Parañaque is one of the local government units to utilize the BSP program in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). 

He said the initiative aims to encourage consumers to use QR Ph as a payment option for goods and their commute.

The mayor said the introduction of the Paleng-QR Ph Plus program marks a pivotal moment in the city’s journey toward digital modernization.

Olivarez also highlighted the city’s steadfast commitment to embracing the ideals of innovation and digitalization, noting its significance in delivering effective and efficient services to every Parañaqueño and its pursuit of a more progressive and developed City of Parañaque.

The mayor commended the BSP’s goal in implementing the program, which is to provide merchants, tricycle drivers, and customers with safe, secure, and seamless transactions and to ensure that no one is left behind in the promotion of digital payments.

“As we enter into a digital era, it’s important that we’re able to adapt to the changes and rapidly evolving trends. But as we move towards a more digitized future, let’s remember to be inclusive and ensure no one is left behind. And this is the goal of the PalengQR Ph Plus program,” said Olivarez.

“Through this initiative, we’ll be able to equip our constituents, particularly in the public market and transportation sector, as well as our consumers, with basic proficiency and digital skills as we seek to build an ecosystem that promotes and pushes for the acceptance of digital payments,” he added.

Aside from the launching of  Paleng-QR Ph Plus program, a Piso Caravan was also organized where residents could exchange their torn banknotes and unusable coins.