Choosing a beginner-friendly credit card is a smart way to start building credit and enjoying exclusive benefits. Many banks in the Philippines offer entry-level cards with low income requirements, easy approval processes, and straightforward perks. Here are the top 16 credit cards in the Philippines that are ideal for first-time cardholders.

1. BDO ShopMore Mastercard

• Annual Fee: PHP 125/month (waived on high spending)
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 15,000
• Best For: Shopping perks at SM stores
• Highlights: Earn points and enjoy exclusive promotions and discounts at SM malls, ideal for frequent shoppers.

2. Metrobank M Free Mastercard

• Annual Fee: Free for life
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 15,000
• Best For: No annual fees
• Highlights: Great for beginners with no annual fees and rewards for every purchase.

3. BPI Amore Cashback Card

• Annual Fee: None (prepaid card)
• Minimum Requirement: Basic ID and age requirements
• Best For: Those with no credit history
• Highlights: Functions as a prepaid card with rewards for purchases, offering discounts at Ayala Malls.

4. RCBC Bankard InstaCard

• Annual Fee: PHP 2,000 (waived on high usage)
• Minimum Requirement: RCBC bank account
• Best For: Quick approval
• Highlights: Designed for fast approval and convenience, ideal for new users with an RCBC account.

5. PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard

• Annual Fee: None
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 10,000
• Best For: Fee-conscious users
• Highlights: Zero annual fees and low finance charges, making it affordable for new users.

6. UnionBank Classic Visa

• Annual Fee: PHP 1,500 (first year waived)
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 10,000
• Best For: Simple application process
• Highlights: Earn rewards on purchases, with easy approval for beginners.

7. Security Bank Classic Mastercard

• Annual Fee: PHP 3,000
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 15,000
• Best For: Flexible payment options
• Highlights: Entry-level card with affordable monthly payments and discounts at partner merchants.

8. Citi Simplicity+ Card

• Annual Fee: None
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 15,000
• Best For: Late fee waivers
• Highlights: No annual or late fees, plus a 10% rebate on interest charges when paying on time.

9. AUB Easy Mastercard

• Annual Fee: None if paid on time
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 10,000
• Best For: Flexible payment options
• Highlights: Enjoy waived fees by paying on time, making it suitable for beginners focused on managing payments.

10. EastWest EveryDay Mastercard

• Annual Fee: PHP 2,500
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 12,000
• Best For: Cashback and rewards on essentials
• Highlights: Earn cashback on groceries, fuel, and drugstore purchases with affordable annual fees.

11. HSBC Red Mastercard

• Annual Fee: PHP 2,500
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 16,000
• Best For: Rewards on dining and shopping
• Highlights: Ideal for frequent shoppers and diners, with points on all purchases.

12. BPI Rewards Card

• Annual Fee: PHP 1,550
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 15,000
• Best For: Simple rewards program
• Highlights: Straightforward points system on purchases, great for those new to credit.

13. Maybank Platinum Visa

• Annual Fee: PHP 2,000
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 12,000
• Best For: Travel and international use
• Highlights: Offers exclusive travel benefits and points on lifestyle purchases, ideal for new travelers.

14. PNB Essentials Mastercard

• Annual Fee: PHP 1,500
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 12,000
• Best For: Everyday essentials
• Highlights: Affordable annual fees and cashback on essential purchases like groceries and gas.

15. Metrobank ON Virtual Mastercard

• Annual Fee: PHP 500
• Minimum Requirement: Metrobank account holder
• Best For: Online shopping
• Highlights: Secure online transactions, ideal for those who prefer e-commerce purchases.

16. Security Bank Fast Track Visa

• Annual Fee: PHP 2,000
• Minimum Income Requirement: PHP 15,000
• Best For: Quick access to credit
• Highlights: Simplified application process, with quick access to funds, suitable for first-time credit card users.

Tips for Beginners Applying for a Credit Card

1. Start Small: Go for a card with lower income requirements and fees.
2. Understand Fees and Interest: Ensure you’re aware of annual fees, late fees, and interest rates.
3. Use the Card Responsibly: Make small purchases and pay off balances in full to build a good credit score.
4. Stay Within Your Budget: Avoid overspending and keep track of due dates to avoid penalties.

Each of these credit cards offers unique benefits that can help new users build credit, manage expenses, and take advantage of rewards. Start with one that best fits your lifestyle and financial habits, and remember that responsible use is the key to maximizing benefits! If you are considering applying for your first credit card, you might want to explore some of the easiest credit cards to get in the Philippines. These options are often designed for beginners or individuals with limited credit history, making the application process more straightforward and accessible. Taking the time to research these beginner-friendly credit cards can help you find one that suits your financial needs and lifestyle.