DICT backs RCBC, Meridian in launching first U.S. virtual account for Filipinos

Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda this week hailed the launch of the country’s first US virtual account for Filipinos, calling it a major step in advancing the Philippines’ digital transformation.

“This innovation aligns perfectly with the DICT's mission to build a safe, reliable, and digitally empowered nation anchored on three pillars: strengthening cybersecurity, ensuring efficient and affordable data access, and driving digital innovations that uplift lives,” Aguda said during the launch of the RCBC Pulz App US Virtual Account, a collaboration between Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) and US-based payments network Meridian.

Through this partnership, RCBC users can open and manage a US virtual account directly within the Pulz app—without needing a US address, social security number, or residency. The new feature allows customers to receive payments in real time from any US bank, with funds instantly reflected in their linked peso accounts.

“RCBC has always been about breaking barriers and building bridges especially for the millions of Filipinos with strong ties abroad,” said Reggie Cariaso, RCBC President and CEO. “Through our partnership with Meridian, we are enabling every Filipino, whether a freelancer or an entrepreneur, to connect directly to the U.S. economy. This is financial inclusion made real.”

The Philippines receives an estimated US$36 billion in remittances annually, ranking among the top destinations for global payments. RCBC’s innovation aims to modernize the experience of sending money home from the U.S. by cutting through the long waits, high service fees, and hidden deductions of traditional remittance channels.

“Global payments often take hours or even days, with fees eating into what people actually receive,” said Will Haering, CEO of Meridian. “By partnering with RCBC, we’re creating a seamless, compliant, and secure bridge that lets Filipinos enjoy the same access, speed, and convenience that U.S.-based users experience locally. It’s not just about faster transactions, it’s about leveling the financial playing field.”

Unlike conventional remittance apps, the RCBC Pulz App US Virtual Account gives users direct access to local U.S. payment systems—privileges once exclusive to US residents. Each user can receive up to $10,000 per month directly into their virtual account, providing a fast and flexible way to manage funds across borders.

“This innovation puts RCBC ahead of the curve in the region’s digital banking race,” said Lito Villanueva, RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer. “We’re not just digitizing existing services; we’re redesigning how money moves across borders. The RCBC Pulz App U.S. Virtual Account embodies our commitment to building a more inclusive, tech-driven, and borderless financial ecosystem.”

The move is especially relevant as more Filipinos work as freelancers or gig professionals serving US-based clients. With more than four million Filipino immigrants and workers in America, the need for fast, affordable, and secure payment solutions continues to rise.

Starting 11 November, Filipinos can open their US virtual accounts through the RCBC Pulz app, enabling them to receive dollar payments directly and convert them instantly to pesos with a few taps.

For families in the Philippines, this means faster support from loved ones abroad—without the usual delays and losses from money transfer fees.

RCBC, long recognized for its digital-first banking approach, continues to expand its portfolio of inclusive technologies. Its Pulz App, along with platforms like DiskarTech and ATM Go, has earned multiple awards for promoting accessible, tech-enabled financial services nationwide.