Visa Philippines is accelerating the rollout of its tap-to-pay services in 7-Eleven stores nationwide, targeting availability in approximately 1,000 branches by the end of 2025.
The payment solutions provider aims to cover the majority of the chain’s nearly 3,000 outlets by the first quarter of 2026.
Currently, about 700 7-Eleven locations, primarily in Metro Manila, accept Visa card payments. This expansion follows a pilot run in 11 branches, signalling confidence in the system’s stability.
Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Philippines Country Manager, stated that the goal is to reach substantial coverage by March 2026.
Jeff Navarro
“We’re trying to see if we can do it in the first quarter. That’s the plan. I feel like if you cover 80% of that, then generally it’s there,” Navarro said.
He noted that scaling depends on the collaboration between acquirers and merchants, but expressed optimism about the partnership with Philippine Seven Corp.
The push for wider card acceptance aligns with recent data showing growth in face-to-face transactions.
In 2024, card-present transactions accounted for about 60% of the total, with payment volumes rising 8% year-on-year in December.
Josh Bosinos, Visa Philippines Head of Data Analytics, observed that spending habits remain consistent throughout the year.
Josh Bosinos
“It doesn’t actually change what Filipinos are buying, because it’s mainly driven by retail goods, food and groceries, and QSRs (quick-service restaurants),” Bosinos explained.
The data also highlighted significant spending by tourists from the United States, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, who primarily used their cards for lodging, entertainment, and food.
