Apple Pay is now available in the Philippines, with Mastercard bringing the contactless payment service to its cardholders nationwide.

The launch allows Mastercard users to make secure payments in stores, apps and online using their iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad and Mac.

To pay in stores, users simply double-click the side button on their iPhone or Apple Watch, authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID or a passcode, then tap their device on a contactless payment terminal.

Apple Pay is accepted anywhere contactless Mastercard payments are supported, including grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, coffee shops and retail outlets.

Mastercard Philippines Country Manager Jason Crasto said the rollout offers consumers a faster, safer and more convenient payment option as digital payments continue to grow in the country.

Apple said card numbers are never stored on the device or its servers. Instead, each transaction uses a unique encrypted Device Account Number and a one-time dynamic security code for added protection.

Users can activate Apple Pay by opening the Wallet app, tapping the “+” button and adding an eligible Mastercard credit or debit card.