EastWest Bank has rolled out support for Google Pay, allowing its credit cardholders to make contactless payments using compatible Android and Wear OS devices.

With Google Pay now available in the Philippines, EastWest is among the first local banks to support the mobile wallet. Cardholders can add their EastWest Visa or Mastercard credit cards to Google Wallet and use their phones to pay in stores, in apps, and online without presenting a physical card.

The bank said the move is aimed at making everyday transactions faster and more convenient, particularly as consumers return to regular routines after the holiday season.

For in-store purchases, users can simply unlock their phones and tap them on contactless payment terminals, eliminating the need to swipe cards or handle cash. Online shoppers can also check out using Google Pay without manually entering card numbers or security details.

EastWest noted that the service can also be used for public transport payments, including at tap-to-pay-enabled stations of the MRT-3, allowing commuters to pay fares by tapping their phones at turnstiles.

The bank highlighted that Google Wallet uses tokenization, a security feature that replaces actual card numbers with digital tokens during transactions, reducing exposure to fraud. Contactless payments through Google Pay are also widely accepted across groceries, cafés, retail outlets, and online platforms that support tap-to-pay.

EastWest said enabling Google Pay is part of its broader push toward mobile-friendly and simplified banking services. The bank added that more card products, including select debit cards, are expected to be supported as adoption of Google Pay grows in the country.