Best Travel Credit Cards in the Philippines – Updated October 2023

If you are fond of traveling or if you travel frequently because of your work, then I highly suggest that you get yourself a travel credit card. The best travel credit cards in the Philippines are highly marketed toward frequent flyers.

They have awesome benefits that will help us travel more comfortably.

Most of these travel credit cards offer free travel insurance, enable users to earn miles or points convertible to miles that can be transferred to participating frequent flyer programs, give access to airport lounges (for free or for a fee), and more.

The best travel credit cards in the Philippines for me are the one that offers at least two out of the three main benefits that I mentioned a while ago.

What are the best of the best travel credit cards in the Philippines?

The best travel credit card for you will depend on your travel needs and wants.

As travelers, our frequent destinations vary. If you frequently travel only locally then the best travel credit cards for you may be the airline co-branded credit cards in partnership with the frequent flyer programs in the Philippines.

For those who are at the entry salary level at the time being, the Best Travel Credit Cards that you may want to consider are the RCBC Bankard Classic Cards. For only a P1,500 Annual Fee, you have access to airport lounges (for a fee), travel insurance, and the ability to earn points.

For those who are earning somewhere between P400K to P1M, then you have a lot of choices. Check out Security Bank and RCBC Credit Cards as they both offer generous airport lounge access.

The best travel credit card for free lounge access for me is RCBC Bankard JCB Platinum if your frequent destination is local (Philippines), Japan, China, and Hawaii. With RCBC Bankard JCB Platinum, you get unlimited free access to the Skyview Airport Lounge and Club Manila Lounge for the Principal cardholder plus one travel companion.

You’ll also have free & unlimited use of airport lounges in Japan, Hawaii, and China and up to two times per card in one year in Hong Kong, Singapore, Korea, and Thailand.

If you’re a businessman who frequently goes to Japan and China then this is the best card for you.

If these recommendations do not suit your needs, check out the other travel credit cards listed below.

Please note that I arranged these cards based on income requirements so you could easily sort out which travel credit cards you could qualify on.

Note to Readers: Please be advised that the information written here is valid as of the time of writing but may have been updated by the time you see/read this post. Please refer to the linked Philippine bank’s web pages to get the updated details. If the links are not working by the time you see the article, please go to the bank’s homepage.

Here is my list of the best travel credit cards in the Philippines:

Income Requirement: P500,000 and below

PNB Mabuhay Miles NOW Mastercard

If Philippine Airlines (PAL) is the airline of your choice and you are only eligible for their entry-level variant, then apply for the PNB Mabuhay Miles NOW Mastercard instead. As of the time of writing, the annual fee is free for the first three (3) years and it costs P1000 afterward.

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Free 1,000 PAL Mabuhay Miles welcome gift when you activate your card (for new and first-time PNB PAL Mabuhay Miles principal cardholders)
• Low Point-to-Mile Ratio

Travel Insurance:

• Up to P1M covered when you charge your entire roundtrip land, air, or sea tickets to your PNB-PAL Mabuhay Miles NOW Mastercard. Travel-related concerns such as flight delays and lost luggage are covered.

Lounge Access:

• N/A

Other Info:

• Priority Check-in at PAL Business Centers at Terminal 1, 2 & 3
• Free Purchase Protection Insurance of up to 250K (for first-time PNB Mabuhay Miles Mastercard Cardholder)
• Exclusive 5% Discount on select PAL international flights when you book online via www.philippineairlines.com
• P1000/Year for the Principal Card after the first three years
• Income Requirement: At least P120,000 Gross Annual Income

Click here to learn more about PNB Mabuhay Miles NOW Mastercard

AirAsia Credit Card powered by RCBC

AirAsia is one of the leading budget carriers in the Southeast Asian region. Its affordability and high level of service make it one of the airlines of choice among budget travelers like me. If you frequently travel to the destinations served by AirAsia, then you may want to consider getting an AirAsia Card.

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Welcome gift of up to 8,000 AirAsia BIG Points when you spend at least Php20,000 within the first sixty (60) days from the card issuance date
• Qualified existing RCBC Bankard cardholders will receive 4,000 AirAsia BIG Points
• 2 Big Points for Every P25 AirAsia Spend
• 1 Big Point for Every P28 Non-AirAsia Domestic Spend
• Earn 1 Point for Every P22 Non-AirAsia Overseas Spend

Travel Insurance:

• Not mentioned on its website as of the time of writing

Lounge Access:

• Access the PAGSS International Lounges in NAIA Terminals 1 & 3 for a fee of US$25. The fee is reversible when you charge a single-receipt or accumulated overseas spend of at least ₱20,000 or US$400 to your RCBC Credit Card, within 90 calendar days from lounge access. To request the access fee reversal, just call (02) 8888-1888.

Other Info:

• Instant upgrade to AirAsia BIG Platinum Membership Status for the first year of card issuance which means you are entitled to priority check-in, boarding, and Xpress Baggage
• You can also use your AirAsia BIG Points to redeem free flights or vouchers from Lazada, SM Gift Pass, Grab, and many more.
• P300/Month for the Principal Card Holder and P150/Month for the Supplementary Card
• Please confirm with RCBC the Income Requirement

Click here to learn more about AirAsia Credit Card powered by RCBC

Diners Club International

BDO is the only bank where you can get the Diners Club credit card and this is the most accessible travel credit card due to the low-income requirement (compared to the other cards available in the market). Here are some of the benefits of owning a Diners Club International:

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn one (1) Travel Mile for every P50

Travel Insurance:

• Free travel insurance up to P5M

Airport Lounge Access:

• As Diners Club International Cardholder, you can avail of one (1) FREE Diners Club airport lounge access per year

Other Info:

• Dual Currency Billing Options
• Access to Diners Club Privileges®
• Income Requirement: At least P33,000 Gross Fixed Monthly Income
• The Principal Card membership Fee is P250/Month

Click here for more information about Diners Club International

Citi Premier Miles Credit Card

Citi PremierMiles Card is definitely one of the best travel credit cards in the Philippines. I have had this card for more than a decade now and I find this card very useful.

Here are some of the benefits of owning a Citi PremierMiles Card:

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn 1 PremierMile for as low as P30 (1.6 PremierMile = 1 mile (Effective December 20, 2020) or redeem cash credits (5 PremierMiles = 1 PHP) that you can use to offset your next purchase.
• Never expiring miles

Travel Insurance:

• Up to PHP 1 million in insurance coverage when you charge your travel tickets to Citi PremierMiles

Airport Lounge Access:

• VIP lounge access at select lounges here and abroad with a FREE DragonPass Membership with two complimentary visits per membership year

Other Info:

• Redeem for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and activities through Citi ThankYou Rewards
• Income Requirement: At least P360,000 Gross Annual Income
• The Principal Card membership Fee is P5000/Year. The first-year fee is waived.

Click here if you want to apply or if you want more information about Citi PremierMiles and other Citi credit cards

Related Post: Citi PremierMiles Credit Card Review

Cebu Pacific Gold Credit Card by Unionbank

If you’re a frequent flyer of Cebu Pacific then this card is for you. Cebu Pacific is probably the leading budget airline in the Philippines when it comes to the number of local destinations it serves which makes this one of the best airline co-branded credit cards available in the Philippines.

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn 1 Go Rewards Point for every P200 Spend
• Earn 1 Go Rewards Point for every P100 Cebu Pacific Spend
• Enjoy a preferential earn rate from Cebu Pacific when you use your card to pay. Earn 1 Go Rewards point for every Php20 spent
• Points are automatically credited to your Go Rewards account

Travel Insurance:

• Not mentioned on the website

Lounge Access:

• Not mentioned on the website

Other Info:

• Early alerts to Cebu Pacific Seat Sales plus exclusive sales
• P3000/Year for the Principal Card
• Income Requirement: At least P360,000 Gross Annual Income

Click here to learn more about Cebu Pacific Gold Credit Card

Income Requirement: P501,000 to P999,999

Cebu Pacific Platinum Credit Card by Unionbank

If you will qualify for the higher-tiered card which is the Cebu Pacific Platinum Credit Card, then opt for that instead in order to get more benefits.

Please note though that since this card is a level higher than the Gold, the annual fee is of course more expensive.

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn 1 Go Rewards Point for every P200 Spend
• Earn 1 Go Rewards Point for every P100 Cebu Pacific Spend
• Enjoy a preferential earn rate from Cebu Pacific when you use your card to pay. Earn 1 Go Rewards point for every Php20 spent
• Points are automatically credited to your Go Rewards account

Travel Insurance:

• Free travel insurance of up to Php10,000,000

Lounge Access:

• Complimentary access to the Pacific Club Lounge at NAIA Terminal 3

Other Info:

• Early alerts to Cebu Pacific Seat Sales plus exclusive sales
• P5000/Year for the Principal Card
• Income Requirement: At least P600,000 Gross Annual Income (Please confirm with Unionbank if they have changed this already)

Click here to learn more about Cebu Pacific Platinum Credit Card

American Express® Explorer™ Credit Card

If you like points that are convertible to flights or hotel accommodations then this card might be for you. You can also get 5,000 bonus miles when you spend P50,000 with your new American Express^® Explorer^TM Credit Card. Promo runs until Jan 31, 2024. Terms and Conditions apply.

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn 1 Membership Rewards® Point for every PHP40 you spend. Points do not expire.
• Convert your Membership Rewards® Points into air miles (1 Membership Rewards® Point = 1 air mile) for free flights with any of the 6 Frequent Flyer Program partners or hotel loyalty points for complimentary stays at 2 Frequent Guest Program partners.

Travel Insurance:

Get up to PHP10,000,000 complimentary travel accident protection when the entire travel fare is charged to your American Express Explorer Credit Card.

• Travel Accident Protection – Up to PHP10,000,000
• Travel Delay – PHP5,000; max of PHP10,000 per family (minimum of 4 hours)
• Emergency Trip Cancellation – Up to PHP200,000
• Missed Connecting Flight – PHP5,000; max of PHP10,000 per family (minimum of 4 hours)
• Baggage Delay – PHP5,000; max of PHP10,000 per family (minimum of 6 hours)
• Baggage Loss or Damage – PHP30,000; Max of PHP80,000 per family and subject to per item limit of PHP5,000

Airport Lounge Access:

• Complimentary lounge access to Marhaba Lounge in NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 from July 1 to December 31, 2023.

Other Info:

• You can also get 2,000 Bonus Membership Rewards^® Points upon card anniversary when you spend PHP600,000 per annum.
• Your retail purchases are also insured from theft, loss, or damage within 30 days from purchase for up to PHP50,000 per occurrence or a max of PHP250,000 per year. Applicable only when you charge your entire fare to your American Express Explorer Credit Card.
• The Principal Card membership Fee is P4000/Year.
• Minimum Gross Monthly Fixed Income Requirement: ₱66,000

Click here for more information about American Express® Explorer™ Credit Card

Metrobank Travel Platinum Visa

If you want a card that lets you earn 1 mile for every P17 spent overseas and on airlines and hotels then this card is for you.

Here are some of the benefits of owning a Metrobank Travel Platinum Visa:

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn 1 Rewards Point for every P20 spend in all your transactions.
• Earn 1 mile for every P17 spent overseas and on airlines & hotel accommodations

Travel Insurance:

• Please confirm with Metrobank.

Airport Lounge Access:

• Priority Pass Membership is Free – Pls confirm with Metrobank if access to airport lounges entry fee is free or not

Other Info:

• Exclusive lifestyle offers
• The first supplementary card is Free for Life
• Access to great deals with M Here partner establishments
• Access to VIP Concierge service
• Income Requirement: At least P700,000 Gross Annual Income
• The first-year annual fee is waived. The annual fee is P5,000.

Click here for more information about Metrobank Travel Platinum Visa

Metrobank Femme Signature Visa

This is the card that is made especially for women. This card also has tons of benefits that women travelers can find very useful.

Here are some of the benefits of owning a Metrobank Femme Signature Visa:

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Triple (3) Rewards Points for hotel accommodations, hospital bills, salons, spas and all overseas spend
• Exchange points for miles – Asia Miles, PAL Mabuhay Miles, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer

Travel Insurance:

• Priority Pass Membership is Free – Pls confirm with Metrobank if access to airport lounges entry fee is free or not.

Airport Lounge Access:

• Priority Pass Membership (Optional) – Pls confirm with Metrobank if access to airport lounges is free or with a fee

Other Info:

• Exclusive lifestyle offers
• Access to great deals with M Here partner establishments
• Free 1st supplementary card annual fee
• Income Requirement: At least P700,000 Gross Annual Income
• The first-year annual fee is waived. The annual fee is P5,000.

Click here for more information about Metrobank Femme Signature Visa

Security Bank Platinum Mastercard

Security Bank has been steadily being recognized as one of the best banks in the Philippines. And they are also one of the banks that have a lot of options when it comes to their credit card offerings.

Here are some of the benefits of owning a Security Bank Platinum Mastercard:

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn 2 Points for every P20 spent (Points can be redeemed for miles). Points do not expire.

Travel Insurance:

• Free Travel Insurance. Click here to see the full details.

Airport Lounge Access:

• Get 2 complimentary lounge access annually (for cardholders and guests combined) in more than 1,000 lounges in 500 airports worldwide via LoungeKey™
• Please note that starting December 29, 2023, Platinum and World cardholders will be able to access any of the 1,300+ lounges in airports worldwide through Mastercard Travel Pass.
• You will also get unlimited access to the Marhaba Lounge NAIA Terminals 1 and 3. Your card should be active and valid to access the lounge. Travel companions are subject to a USD20 fee per person per visit.

Other Info:

• Dual-currency Billing
• Enjoy exclusive, automatic cashback offers from participating overseas merchants when you travel, shop, and pay with your Platinum Mastercard credit card.
• The first-year annual fee is waived. The annual fee is P4,000.
• Gross Annual Income of at least P780K

Click here for more information about Security Bank Platinum Mastercard

Diners Club Premiere

If you need a travel credit card that has a high credit limit then you may want to check out this one. Here are some of the benefits of the Diners Club Premier card:

 

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn one (1) Mile for every P30 charged to your BDO Diners Club Premiere Credit Card.
• For those enrolled in the Dual Currency feature, earn two (2) Travel Miles for every $1 spend.

Travel Insurance:

• Free travel insurance up to P20M

Airport Lounge Access:

• As Diners Club International Cardholder, you can avail of two (2) FREE airport lounge access per year

Other Info:

• Dual Currency Billing Options
• High Credit limit
• Access to Diners Club Privileges®
• Minimum Gross Fixed Monthly Income Requirement: ₱77,000
• The annual fee is P4500/Year for the Principal Card

Click here for more information about Diners Club Premiere

Income Requirement: P1M and Above

Security Bank World Mastercard

This credit card from Security Bank has a lot of features that frequent travelers might find very useful. In the past few years, this bank has been aggressively revamping its service offering by improving and innovating its bank services. Here are some of the benefits of owning a Security Bank Work Mastercard Card:

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn 3 Points for every P20 spent (Points can be redeemed for Miles)

Travel Insurance:

• Free Travel Insurance. Click here to see the full details.

Airport Lounge Access:

• Get 6 complimentary lounge access annually (for cardholders and guests combined) in more than 1,000 lounges in 500 airports worldwide via LoungeKey™
• Please note that starting December 29, 2023, Platinum and World cardholders will be able to access any of the 1,300+ lounges in airports worldwide through Mastercard Travel Pass.
• You will also get unlimited access to the Marhaba Lounge NAIA Terminals 1 and 3. Your card should be active and valid to access the lounge. Travel companions are subject to a USD20 fee per person per visit.

Other Info:

• Enjoy exclusive, automatic cashback offers from participating overseas merchants
• The first-year annual fee is waived. The annual fee is P5,000.
• Free Accor Plus Membership with One Night Complimentary Stay and 50% discount on dining (as of the time of update). There’s a minimum spend requirement of P90,000 within sixty (60) calendar days from the card approval date (“spend period date”).
• Income Requirement: At least P3M Gross Annual Income (Please confirm with Security Bank)

Click here for more information about Security Bank World Mastercard

PNB Mabuhay Miles Platinum Mastercard

If Philippine Airlines (PAL) is the airline of your choice then consider getting this card instead. Philippine Airlines is known as the flag carrier of the Philippines and it’s one of the most popular choices of airline among locals. It serves a lot of direct routes to international destinations that are frequent by both Filipino tourists and Overseas Filipino Workers.

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Free 2,000 PAL Mabuhay Miles welcome gift when you activate your card (for new and first-time PNB PAL Mabuhay Miles principal cardholders)
• Earn 1 Point for every P48 Spend (1 Point = 1 Mile)
• Additional Free 10000 Mabuhay Miles upon reaching P100K worth of transactions at PAL (for first-time PNB Mabuhay Miles Mastercard Cardholder)

Travel Insurance:

• Free Travel Insurance of up to 3M

Lounge Access:

• Not mentioned on its website as of the time of writing

Other Benefits:

• Free Purchase Protection Insurance of up to 250K (for first-time PNB Mabuhay Miles Mastercard Cardholder)
• Exclusive 5% Discount on select PAL international flights when you book online via www.philippineairlines.com
• Free annual fee for life for all your PNB Supplementary Credit Cards
• Choice of either single or dual currency billing
• P3000/Year for a Principal Card or redeem 12,000 Rewards Points to pay for the Annual Fee
• Gross Annual Income of at least P1.2M (Please confirm with PNB)

Click here to learn more about PNB Mabuhay Miles Platinum Mastercard

PNB Mabuhay Miles World Mastercard

If Philippine Airlines (PAL) is the airline of your choice and the Platinum Mastercard benefits do not suit you, then consider getting the World Mastercard instead. Please take note that the annual fee for the World Mastercard is significantly higher than the Platinum Mastercard. For high-net-worth individuals, this is one of the best airline co-branded credit cards available in the Philippines.

Miles Accrual:

• Free 2,000 PAL Mabuhay Miles welcome gift when you activate your card (for new and first-time PNB PAL Mabuhay Miles principal cardholders)
• Low Point-to-Mile Ratio
• Additional Free 10,000 Mabuhay Miles upon reaching P100K worth of transactions at PAL (for first-time PNB Mabuhay Miles Mastercard Cardholder)

Travel Insurance:

• Free Travel Insurance of up to 10M

Lounge Access:

• Airport lounge access with Mastercard Airport Experiences (MCAE)

Other Benefits:

• Priority Check-in at PAL Business Centers at Terminal 1, 2 & 3
• Free Purchase Protection Insurance of up to 250K (for first-time PNB Mabuhay Miles Mastercard Cardholder)
• Exclusive 5% Discount on select PAL international flights when you book online via www.philippineairlines.com
• Free annual fee for life for all your PNB Supplementary Credit Cards
• Choice of either single or dual currency billing
• P6000/Year for the Principal Card
• Gross Annual Income of at least P2.4M (Please confirm with PNB)

Click here to learn more about PNB Mabuhay Miles World Mastercard

EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Platinum Mastercard

If you frequently fly using Singapore Airlines then this is definitely the card to get.

Miles Accrual:

• 3 KrisFlyers for every P45 Spend on Singapore Airlines, SilkAir, Scoot & KrisShop spend and International/cross-border, hotel, travel agency, airline, online & international cash advance
• 1 KrisFlyer for every P45 Local Spend
• 3,000 KrisFlyer miles for Php100,000 spend within 3 months from the card activation date (For new card applications only)
• 5,000 KrisFlyer miles for Php100,000 spend within 12 months from the card approval date, and within 12 months between anniversary dates thereafter

Travel Insurance:

• You and your family are covered for up to Php20 Million with comprehensive travel accident and inconvenience insurance when international/domestic air, land, and sea travel fares are purchased using your EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Platinum Mastercard.

Lounge Access:

• Priority Pass membership, inclusive of two (2) complimentary access for you and your guest per year

Other Info:

• Access to Mastercard® Travel and Lifestyle Services
• Eligible for Mastercard® Flight Delay Pass
• P4000/Year for the Principal Card
• Free for life for the 1st Supplementary
• Gross Annual Income of at least P1.2M

Click here to learn more about EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Platinum Mastercard

EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer World Mastercard

If you frequently fly using Singapore Airlines then this is definitely the card to get and if you feel that the Platinum Mastercard set of perks and benefits do not suit your needs, then consider getting the World Mastercard instead.

Miles/Points Accrual:

• 3 KrisFlyers for every P36 Spend on Singapore Airlines, SilkAir, Scoot & KrisShop spend and International/cross-border, hotel, travel agency, airline, online & international cash advance
• 1 KrisFlyer for every P36 Local Spend
• 6,000 KrisFlyer miles for Php200,000 spend within 3 months from the card activation date (For new card applications only)
• 15,000 KrisFlyer miles for Php100,000 spend within 12 months from the card approval date, and within 12 months between anniversary dates thereafter

Travel Insurance:

• You and your family are covered for up to Php20 Million with comprehensive travel accident and inconvenience insurance when international/domestic air, land, and sea travel fares are purchased using your EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Platinum Mastercard.

Lounge Access:

• Up to four (4) complimentary access for you and your guest per year to over 1,100 lounges in over 500 airports worldwide (130+ countries), regardless of your airline, frequent flyer membership, or ticket class held via Mastercard® Airport Experiences provided by LoungeKey™ (MCAE)

Other Info:

• Access to Mastercard® Travel and Lifestyle Services
• Eligible for Mastercard® Flight Delay Pass
• The annual fee is P5000/Year for the Principal Card
• Free for life for the 1st Supplementary
• Gross Annual Income of at least P2.6M

Click here to learn more about EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer World Mastercard

EastWest Platinum MasterCard

If you have a nice paying job that will enable you to meet the salary requirement for this card then I suggest that you check this card out. Just like the EastWest Priority Banking Visa Infinite Credit Card, this card also comes with a Free Lifetime Membership for the principal and supplementary EastWest Platinum MasterCard credit cardholders. If that is not enough to convince you then here are the benefits of owning an EastWest Platinum MasterCard:

Miles Accrual:

• Earn one (1) Platinum Rewards Point for every Php40
• Points can be redeemed for Asia Miles, Krisflyer Miles, and Mabuhay Miles

Travel Insurance:

• Free Comprehensive Travel Accident & Inconvenience Insurance of up to Php20 Million

Airport Lounge Access:

• Free Priority Pass Membership (Usage fee applies)

Other Info:

• Access to Premium Perks and MasterCard Moments
• Free EastWest Platinum Virtual Card
• Access to MasterCard Concierge Service
• Gross Annual Income of at least P2.6M

Click here for more information about EastWest Platinum MasterCard

American Express® Platinum Credit Card

BDO is the only bank in the Philippines that carries American Express cards. The salary requirement is quite steep but if you have a monthly income of at least P139,000 then you might consider checking this card out.

Here are the benefits of owning an American Express® Platinum Credit Card:

Miles Accrual:

• Earn 1 Membership Rewards® point for every P45/1USD spent. Points do not expire.
• You can redeem 1 air mile with every 1 Membership Rewards^® Point.

Travel Insurance:

• Comprehensive Travel Accident and Inconvenience Protection Insurance wherein you can get up to PHP20,000,000 complimentary travel accident protection when the entire travel fare is charged to your American Express Platinum Credit Card.
  • Travel Accident Protection – Up to PHP20,000,000
  • Travel Delay – PHP15,000; max of PHP30,000 per family (minimum of 4 hours)
  • Emergency Trip Cancellation – Up to PHP200,000
  • Missed Connecting Flight – PHP15,000; max of PHP30,000 per family (minimum of 4 hours)
  • Baggage Delay – PHP15,000; max of PHP30,000 per family (minimum of 6 hours)
  • Baggage Loss or Damage – PHP40,000; max of PHP80,000 per family and subject to per item limit of PHP 5,000
• Your retail purchases are insured from theft, loss, or damage within 30 days from purchase for up to PHP75,000 per item or a max of PHP400,000 per year. Applicable only when you charge your entire fare to your American Express Platinum Credit Card. Terms & Conditions apply.

Airport Lounge Access:

• Complimentary lounge access to Marhaba Lounge at NAIA Terminals 1* and 3. Please note that complimentary access to Marhaba Lounge in NAIA Terminal 1 is until December 31, 2023 only.
• You can book and access premium airport lounges worldwide with LoungeBuddy starting at USD25 – no elite status, lounge memberships, or class of service required.

Other Info:

• Access to Travel Concierge
• Exclusive travel discounts and privileges
• Access to global travel assistance for medical and legal emergencies
• Minimum Gross Fixed Monthly Income Requirement: ₱139,000
• The annual fee is P5000/Year for the Principal Card. This is automatically waived when you spend PHP 600,000 in a year.

Click here for more information about American Express® Platinum Credit Card

Metrobank World Mastercard

This is one of the cards that have a high entry ceiling but gives the owner access to luxury. If you have a Gross Annual Income of at least P4M then you may want to check this card out.

Here are some of the benefits of owning a Metrobank World Mastercard:

Miles Accrual:

• Earn 1 point for every Php20
• Earn double (2) rewards points for international transactions
• Exchange points for miles – Asia Miles, PAL Mabuhay Miles, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer

Travel Insurance:

• Travel insurance details may have been updated by Metrobank, please confirm with Metrobank.
• Get automatic worldwide insurance for online item purchases with E-Commerce Protection.

Airport Lounge Access:

• Airport lounge access via LoungeKey network (Usage fee applies)

Other Info:

• Access to great deals with M Here partner establishments
• Access to premium perks and privileges
• Exclusive invites to special events
• Access to VIP Concierge service
• Income Requirement: At least P4M Gross Annual Income
• P6000/Year for the Principal Card. The first year’s annual fee is waived.

Click here for more information about Metrobank World Mastercard

Exclusive and by Invitation Only

EastWest Priority Banking Visa Infinite Credit Card

This is probably one of the best travel credit cards in the Philippines. One of the benefits is that the annual fee is waived perpetually. That alone is already an awesome reason to get this card. This card though is only available exclusively to Priority Banking Clients of EastWest Bank.

Here are the other benefits of owning an EastWest Priority Banking Visa Infinite Credit Card:

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Each Php10 qualified spend corresponds to one (1) Infinite Rewards Point
• Points can be exchanged for Asia Miles, KrisFlyer miles, and Mabuhay Miles

Travel Insurance:

• Free Comprehensive Travel Accident & Inconvenience Insurance of up to Php20 Million

Airport Lounge Access:

• VIP Airport Lounge Access – Existing Priority Clients who meet the minimum required Total Relationship Balance can enjoy up to four (4) complimentary access per year.
• Enjoy up to two (2) complimentary access per year to the Marhaba Lounge at NAIA Terminal 3 (Principal Cardholder).

Other Info:

• Access to Premium Perks for Elite Credit Cards
• Access to Global Visa Infinite Privileges
• Concierge Service
• Perpetual Waiver of Annual Membership Fee
• Income Requirement: Exclusive to Priority Banking Clients only

Click here for more information about EastWest Priority Banking Visa Infinite Credit Card

Others – Contact Bank for Income Requirement

RCBC Bankard Classic Cards

This card is probably one of the most accessible credit cards that have the travel advantages that we are looking for. This card is marketed towards young professionals. You have the option to choose either Mastercard, Visa, or JCB.

Here are some of the benefits of owning an RCBC Bankard Classic Cards:

Miles Accrual:

• Earn 1 Point for every Php36 on other spend, or for every Php125 spend on supermarkets, drugstores, or gas stations or, for every Php250 Fast BillPay transaction
• Flexible rewards program – You can exchange points to Airmiles which you could later convert to Asia Miles, PAL Mabuhay Miles, or airasia Points.

Travel Insurance:

• Free travel insurance (Travel Plus Lite)

Airport Lounge Access:

• Principal cardholders can have access to PAGSS International Lounges in NAIA Terminals 1 & 3 for $25. You can have the access fee reversed when you charge a single-receipt or accumulated overseas spend of at least ₱20,000 or US$400 to your RCBC Credit Card, within 90 calendar days from lounge access (need to make a call to request the reversal).

Other Info:

• 0% Installment for your purchases abroad
• Free purchase protection
• Income Requirement: Contact RCBC
• The annual Fee is P1,500

Click here for more information about RCBC Bankard Classic Cards

RCBC Bankard Gold Cards

The benefits of the Gold Cards are almost as similar as the Classics.

Here are some of the benefits of owning an RCBC Bankard Gold Card:

 

Miles Accrual:

• Earn 1 Point for every Php36 on other spend, or for every Php125 spend on supermarkets, drugstores, or gas stations or, for every Php250 Fast BillPay transaction
• Flexible rewards program – You can exchange points to Airmiles which you could later convert to Asia Miles, PAL Mabuhay Miles, or airasia Points.

Travel Insurance:

• Free travel insurance (Travel Plus Lite)

Airport Lounge Access:

• Principal cardholders can have access to PAGSS International Lounges in NAIA Terminals 1 & 3 for $25. You can have the access fee reversed when you charge a single-receipt or accumulated overseas spend of at least ₱20,000 or US$400 to your RCBC Credit Card, within 90 calendar days from lounge access (need to make a call to request the reversal).

Other Info:

• 0% Installment for your purchases abroad
• Free purchase protection
• Income Requirement: Contact RCBC
• The annual Fee is P3,000

Click here for more information about RCBC Bankard Gold Cards

RCBC Bankard Diamond Card Platinum Mastercard

All the benefits of a travel credit card plus a chance to give back to the community. For every Php100 charged to your Diamond Card, P0.10 will be automatically donated to Gawad Kalinga’s Kusina ng Kalinga or to or Zonta Foundation for Women.

Here are some of the benefits of owning an RCBC Bankard Diamond Card Platinum Mastercard:

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn 1 Point for every Php50 on other spend, or for every Php125 spend on supermarkets, drugstores, or gas stations, or for every Php250 Fast BillPay transaction
• Flexible rewards program – You can exchange points to Airmiles which you could later convert to Asia Miles, PAL Mabuhay Miles, or airasia Points.

Travel Insurance:

• Free Travel PLUS insurance

Airport Lounge Access:

• Principal cardholders can have UNLIMITED FREE ACCESS to PAGSS International Lounges in NAIA Terminals 1 & 3 and if you have more than one (1) travel companion, an access fee of US$25 per person.
• You can have the access fee reversed when you charge a single-receipt or accumulated overseas spend of at least ₱20,000 or US$400 to your RCBC Credit Card, within 90 calendar days from lounge access (need to make a call to request the reversal).

Other Info:

• 0% Installment for your purchases abroad
• Free purchase protection
• Income Requirement: Contact RCBC
• The annual Fee is P2,500

Click here for more information about RCBC Bankard Diamond Card Platinum Mastercard

RCBC JCB  Bankard Platinum Credit Card

RCBC JCB Platinum Credit Card is one of the most well-rounded travel credit cards on this list. It offers a lot of features and benefits that most frequent traveler credit card users might find appealing.

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn 1 Point for every Php36 on other spend, or for every Php125 spend on supermarkets, drugstores, or gas stations, or for every Php250 Fast BillPay transaction
• Flexible rewards program – You can exchange points to Airmiles which you could later convert to Asia Miles, PAL Mabuhay Miles, or airasia Points.
• Earn 1 Point for every Php25 retail transaction in Japan

Travel Insurance:

• Complimentary Travel Insurance & Purchase Protection. See Terms & Conditions on their website.

Airport Lounge Access:

• Principal cardholders can have UNLIMITED FREE ACCESS to PAGSS International Lounges in NAIA Terminals 1 & 3 and if you have more than one (1) travel companion, an access fee of US$25 per person.
• You can have the access fee reversed when you charge a single-receipt or accumulated overseas spend of at least ₱20,000 or US$400 to your RCBC Credit Card, within 90 calendar days from lounge access (need to make a call to request the reversal).
• RCBC JCB Platinum & Gold Credit Cardholders can enjoy access to Airport Lounges in Japan and Hawaii up to 6 times until March 31, 2024. The lounges can be used once per boarding pass either at departure or during arrival.

Other Info:

• JCB Platinum Concierge Desk
• Income Requirement: Contact RCBC
• The annual Fee is P3,600

Click here for more information about RCBC Bankard Diamond Card Platinum Mastercard

RCBC Bankard Black Card Platinum Mastercard

This card comes in two variants – RCBC Bankard Black Platinum Mastercard PESO and RCBC Bankard Black Platinum Mastercard DOLLAR. This is one of the premium credit cards of RCBC.

Here are some of the benefits of RCBC Bankard Black Card Platinum Mastercard:

Miles Accrual:

• Earn 1 Point for every Php36 on other spend, or for every Php125 spend on supermarkets, drugstores, or gas stations, or for every Php250 Fast BillPay transaction
• Flexible rewards program – You can exchange points to Airmiles which you could later convert to Asia Miles, PAL Mabuhay Miles, or airasia Points.

Travel Insurance:

• Complimentary Travel Insurance & Purchase Protection. See Terms & Conditions on their website.

Airport Lounge Access:

• Principal cardholders can have UNLIMITED FREE ACCESS to PAGSS International Lounges in NAIA Terminals 1 & 3 and if you have more than one (1) travel companion, an access fee of US$25 per person.
• You can have the access fee reversed when you charge a single-receipt or accumulated overseas spend of at least ₱20,000 or US$400 to your RCBC Credit Card, within 90 calendar days from lounge access (need to make a call to request the reversal).

Other Info:

• Free-for-Life Supplementary Card (maximum of 5)
• Income Requirement: Contact RCBC
• The annual Fee is P3,600

Click here for more information about RCBC Bankard JCB Platinum

RCBC Bankard Visa Platinum Card

This is probably one of the best travel credit cards in the Philippines that you can get your hands on. It’s the only RCBC Bankard credit card that has the PREFERRED AIRMILES program that allows you to earn free flights faster.

Here are some of the benefits of RCBC Bankard Visa Platinum Mastercard Card:

Miles Accrual:

• Earn 1 PREFERRED AIRMILE for as low as Php25 for overseas spend or Php48 for local spend. 1 PREFERRED AIRMILE is equivalent to 1 point of your chosen mileage program – Asia Mile, Mabuhay Mile, airasia RewardsPoints

Travel Insurance:

• Free Travel Insurance of up to Php5,000,000 and Purchase Protection when you charge all your international travel-related needs to your card
• e-Commerce Purchase Protection of up to US$1,000 per claim per year for possible losses on online purchases which include non-delivery, wrong or incomplete delivery, or damaged purchases.

Airport Lounge Access:

• Complimentary Priority Pass™ membership
• Unlimited free access to the PAGSS Lounge in Terminal 1 & 3 for the Principal cardholder plus one travel companion

Other Info:

• Visa Concierge Service for flight, hotel, restaurant reservations, trip planning, and more, available to you 24/7 anywhere in the world
• Increased purchasing power with up to 100% temporary increase in credit limit during your travel period
• Income Requirement: Contact RCBC
• The annual Fee is P5,000

Click here for more information about RCBC Bankard Visa Platinum Card

Related Post: RCBC Bankard Visa Platinum Review

RCBC Bankard Visa Infinite Card

If you want to have the Visa Infinite Card but cannot gain access to the Eastwest Visa Infinite Card then here’s your option. RCBC also has the Infinite Visa card and it’s not by invitation only.

The welcome gift to New-to-RCBC Credit Card RCBC Visa Infinite Credit Cardholders can get 100,000 Rewards Points (“Welcome Gift”) for the combined retail spend of at least Php60,000 using their RCBC Visa Infinite Credit Card within 60 days from card delivery. Once the spend requirement is met, simply register here to claim this Welcome Gift.

Here are some of the card’s benefits:

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Flexible rewards program – You can exchange points to Airmiles which you could later convert to Asia Miles, PAL Mabuhay Miles, or airasia Rewards Points.
• Get 5 Rewards Points for every Php30 card usage on overseas in-store or online transaction
• Get 3 Rewards Points for every Php30 card usage on local online transaction
• Get 1 Point for every Php30 card usage on other transactions including purchases at supermarkets, drugstores, and gas stations.
• Get 1 Point for every Php250 Fast BillPay transaction.

Travel Insurance:

• Free Travel Insurance & Purchase Protection
• e-Commerce Purchase Protection of up to US$1,000 per claim per year for possible losses on online purchases which include non-delivery, wrong or incomplete delivery, or damaged purchases.

Airport Lounge Access:

• Complimentary Priority Pass™ membership
• Unlimited free access to the PAGSS Lounge in Terminal 1&3 for the Principal cardholder plus one travel companion

Other Info:

• 24×7 VISA CONCIERGE SERVICE
• Free-for-Life Annual Fee for Supplementary Card (maximum of 9)
• Income Requirement: Contact RCBC
• The annual Fee is P6,000

Click here for more information about RCBC Bankard Visa Infinite Card

RCBC Bankard World Mastercard

If you want to have the World Mastercard but cannot gain access to the other banks’ World Mastercard credit card then here’s your option. RCBC also has the World Mastercard and it’s not by invitation only.

Here are some of the card’s benefits:

Miles/Points Accrual:

• Earn 1 Point for every Php36 on other spend, or for every Php125 spend on supermarkets, drugstores, or gas stations, or for every Php250 Fast BillPay transaction
• Flexible rewards program – You can exchange points to Airmiles which you could later convert to Asia Miles, PAL Mabuhay Miles, or airasia Points.

Travel Insurance:

• Complimentary Travel Insurance with Travel Medical & COVID-19 coverage and Purchase Protection when you charge all your international travel-related needs to your card
• Worldwide coverage of up to US$200 for your international and local purchases with Mastercard e-Commerce Purchase Protection

Airport Lounge Access:

• Complimentary Priority Pass™ membership
• Unlimited free access to the PAGSS Lounge in Terminal 1&3 for the Principal cardholder plus one travel companion

Other Info:

• Free-for-Life Annual Fee for Supplementary Card (maximum of 9)
• Income Requirement: Contact RCBC
• The annual Fee is P3,600

Click here for more information about RCBC Bankard World Mastercard

Bank of Commerce World Mastercard

If you’re a high net worth individual then you might prefer having the Bank of Commerce World Mastercard instead of the Platinum Mastercard as it offers a wide array of benefits that cater to discerning individuals.

Here is a summary of the benefits of owning a Bank of Commerce World Mastercard:

Miles Accrual:

• Earn 1 Reward Point for every P25 Spend
• Earn as much as 5x Rewards Points with select merchants
• Points can be converted to airmiles with participating frequent flyer miles programs.

Travel Insurance:

• All Principal and Supplementary cardholders up to 70 years old are covered for up to Php 5 million in Travel Accidents, Medical Expenses, and Inconvenience Benefits every time you charge your entire fare for travel (airline tickets and other means of public transport) to your Bank of Commerce Platinum credit card when you travel abroad.
• It provides protection up to a maximum of 15 days for international travel while taking a trip on a common carrier conveyance or scheduled flight, as a fare-paying passenger.

Airport Lounge Access: 

• Membership with Loungekey with two (2) complimentary visits per cardholder. Succeeding visits shall be charged to the cardholder.

Other Benefits:

• Dual-currency
• Luxury Hotels and Resorts Privileges
• World Mastercard® Rewards & Experiences
• Mastercard® Concierge
• Annual Membership Fee: P6,000
• Income Requirement: Contact Bank of Commerce

Click here to learn more about Bank of Commerce World Mastercard

How to know which card is right for you?

1. The first step in identifying which card is right for you is to know these two basic things:

• Does your current annual gross income meet the requirement of your target credit card/s?
• Are you financially ok with paying the corresponding annual fee of your target credit card/s?

2. Are the benefits of the card sufficient for your travel needs? All of the cards mentioned above offer (a combination of) access to airport lounges (for free and for a fee), travel insurance, and the capability to earn miles or points.

You should determine among the list which one offers the most benefit in accordance with your needs.

3.  Compare additional value-add services, once you have narrowed down your choices then check out their value-add services. For example, some travel credit cards have cashback options on top of their travel benefits.

Note:

This post was originally published on June 16, 2019, and last updated on October 26, 2023.

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Are you using one of the above-mentioned credit cards? What are the cards that you consider the best travel cards in the Philippines? Feel free to share your tips and recommendations in the comment section below.