When it comes to credit cards in the Philippines, Metrobank credit cards have earned a reputation for providing customers with excellent benefits, secure payment options, and reliable customer service. Whether you’re looking for a Metrobank credit card secured option to build your credit, or you’re interested in a card with great rewards and perks, Metrobank offers a variety of credit cards to suit your needs.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into everything you need to know about Metrobank credit cards, from their benefits and features to the different options available. We will also discuss how to apply for a Metrobank credit card, the cost, and what sets these cards apart from others in the market.
What is a Metrobank Credit Card?
A Metrobank credit card is a financial product offered by Metrobank (Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company), one of the leading banks in the Philippines. The bank provides a wide range of credit card products designed to meet the financial needs of different customers. Whether you are a frequent traveler, a rewards seeker, or someone looking to build their credit history, Metrobank offers tailored solutions through its various credit card options.
Metrobank credit cards come with several unique features, including competitive interest rates, rewards programs, cashback offers, and even secured credit cards for those who are building or rebuilding their credit score. They also provide advanced security features, digital banking solutions, and access to a network of ATM and merchant partners.
Types of Metrobank Credit Cards
Metrobank offers several types of credit cards, each designed with specific benefits for different types of cardholders. Below are some of the most popular types of Metrobank credit cards:
- Metrobank Cashback Card: Ideal for those who want to earn cashback on their everyday purchases. This card offers up to 5% cashback on supermarket purchases and 0.5% on other purchases.
- Metrobank Travel Platinum Card: Perfect for frequent travelers, this card provides rewards for flight bookings, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.
- Metrobank Simply Miles Card: This card is tailored for those who enjoy accumulating miles, offering 1 mile for every P40 spent on local transactions.
- Metrobank Credit Card Secured: This is an option for individuals who want to build their credit history but may not yet qualify for an unsecured credit card. The secured card requires a deposit that acts as a collateral.
The Benefits of Using a Metrobank Credit Card
Metrobank credit cards offer a wide range of benefits designed to cater to different spending habits, financial goals, and lifestyle needs. Whether you’re looking to earn rewards on daily purchases, get access to exclusive travel perks, or manage your finances more effectively, Metrobank provides a variety of options to suit every individual. Below, we explore in more detail the numerous advantages of using a Metrobank credit card, from its financial flexibility to the premium rewards that come with it.
1. Earn Rewards and Cashback on Everyday Spending
One of the most appealing benefits of using a Metrobank credit card is the ability to earn rewards or cashback on almost every purchase. Depending on the type of card you choose, Metrobank credit cards offer cashback, points, or miles that can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, making your everyday spending more valuable.
For example, the Metrobank Cashback Card is designed to reward customers with up to 5% cashback on supermarket purchases and 0.5% on other eligible expenses such as dining, fuel, and online shopping. This cashback can be credited back to your account, providing you with immediate savings that can be used for future purchases. If you’re a frequent shopper, this card offers significant opportunities to save money while making everyday transactions.
Alternatively, the Metrobank Simply Miles Card allows you to earn 1 mile for every P40 spent, making it ideal for those who travel frequently or are looking to accumulate miles for future travel-related rewards. These miles can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or even upgrades, which can save you significant amounts on travel expenses. Whether you’re buying groceries, booking a hotel, or refueling your car, your purchases can earn you rewards that add real value to your lifestyle.
2. Flexible Payment Options and Financial Control
Metrobank credit cards give users significant flexibility in managing their payments. With these cards, you can choose to pay the minimum amount due, the full balance, or set up a payment plan. This flexibility allows you to adapt your payments to your financial situation and avoid accumulating interest fees, especially if you’re going through a temporary cash crunch.
If you opt to pay the minimum, your interest rate will apply only to the remaining balance, but if you pay in full, you avoid interest charges altogether. Additionally, Metrobank offers an installment plan feature, where you can convert large purchases into manageable monthly payments. This is perfect for big-ticket items such as electronics or home appliances, which you might not want to pay all at once. The installment option typically comes with lower interest rates than regular credit card payments, giving you more control over your financial situation.
Moreover, Metrobank provides real-time SMS alerts for all transactions, enabling you to track your spending instantly. This helps you maintain better control over your finances and avoid unexpected charges.
3. Advanced Security Features
Metrobank credit cards are equipped with advanced security features to ensure that your transactions are safe and your personal information is protected. The cards utilize EMV chip technology, which is an international standard for secure credit card transactions. The chip creates a unique transaction code for each purchase, making it much harder for fraudsters to clone your card.
In addition to the chip technology, Metrobank also provides one-time password (OTP) authentication for online purchases, adding another layer of security when shopping on e-commerce platforms. You will receive a unique code on your phone that must be entered to confirm the transaction. This minimizes the risk of online fraud, as only you can authorize the purchase with your OTP.
Another security benefit is the ability to freeze your Metrobank credit card instantly through the Metrobank mobile app if your card is lost or stolen. This feature provides peace of mind knowing that your card is protected and cannot be used by unauthorized individuals.
4. Exclusive Travel Perks
For those who love to travel or need to travel for business, Metrobank offers credit cards with premium travel benefits. The Metrobank Travel Platinum Card, for instance, is a great choice for frequent travelers who want to maximize their rewards while enjoying a variety of travel-related perks.
Cardholders of the Metrobank Travel Platinum Card can access airport lounges, a valuable benefit for those who want a comfortable space to relax before flights. The card also comes with travel insurance that provides coverage for unforeseen events during your travels, such as trip cancellations, lost baggage, or medical emergencies. This coverage adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind while traveling.
Additionally, Metrobank credit cardholders enjoy access to special travel offers with partner airlines and travel agencies. These offers often include discounted flight tickets, hotel stays, and car rentals, giving you access to exclusive deals that regular travelers might not be able to access.
5. Build or Rebuild Your Credit with Secured Credit Cards
Metrobank offers a secured credit card option, which is a valuable product for individuals who are looking to build or rebuild their credit history. The Metrobank Credit Card Secured requires a deposit that acts as collateral, and your credit limit is typically equivalent to the deposit amount. This makes it an ideal option for people who may have limited or no credit history, or for those who need to improve their credit score.
By managing a secured credit card carefully, including paying on time and staying within your credit limit, you can steadily enhance your credit score Over time, this can help you qualify for an unsecured Metrobank credit card with better terms and higher credit limits.
Secured credit cards also help you establish a positive credit history, which can open up opportunities for other types of credit products, such as personal loans, auto loans, and home mortgages, in the future.
6. Exclusive Merchant Discounts and Promotions
Another benefit of using a Metrobank credit card is the wide range of discounts and promotions available through Metrobank’s partnerships with merchants. Metrobank frequently collaborates with retail stores, restaurants, travel companies, and online platforms to offer exclusive deals for its cardholders.
For example, Metrobank credit cardholders may receive special discounts at top department stores, restaurants, and online retailers. You may also get exclusive access to events, sales, and flash deals that are only available to credit cardholders.
The benefits of these exclusive merchant partnerships make Metrobank credit cards a smart choice for individuals who love to shop, dine, or travel, as they provide the opportunity to save money while enjoying high-quality products and services.
7. Contactless Payments for Convenience
Metrobank credit cards are equipped with contactless payment technology, which allows you to make quick and secure payments without needing to insert your card into a reader. Simply tap your card on the payment terminal to complete the transaction. This is particularly convenient for small purchases and is widely accepted at a variety of merchants, including supermarkets, restaurants, and transit systems.
Contactless payments are fast, efficient, and reduce the need to touch payment terminals, which is especially useful during times when minimizing physical contact is important. With a contactless Metrobank credit card, you can complete your transactions in a matter of seconds.
Real-World Examples of Metrobank Credit Cards
1. Metrobank Cashback Card
The Metrobank Cashback Card is perfect for those who want to earn cashback on their everyday purchases. With cashback rates of 5% on supermarket purchases, this card is ideal for families or individuals who spend a lot on groceries. Additional cashback is also earned on dining, fuel, and other regular expenses.
Pros:
- High cashback rate on supermarket purchases
- Earn rewards on dining and other everyday expenses
- Zero annual fee for the first year
- Easy application process
Cons:
- Cashback is capped at a specific limit
- Limited to a few categories for cashback eligibility
Price: No annual fee for the first year, then P2,500
Features:
- Earn 5% cashback at supermarkets
- Cashback on dining and other everyday expenses
- No annual fee for the first year
Where to Buy: Apply directly on Metrobank’s website.
2. Metrobank Travel Platinum Card
The Metrobank Travel Platinum Card is designed for frequent travelers who want to earn miles with every purchase. It offers access to a range of travel-related benefits, including free airport lounge access and travel insurance.
Pros:
- Earn miles for travel-related purchases
- Access to airport lounges and travel perks
- Comprehensive travel insurance benefits
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Limited to premium users
Price: P5,000 annual fee
Features:
- Earn miles on every purchase
- Travel insurance coverage
- Access to exclusive travel promotions
Where to Buy: Apply directly on Metrobank’s website.
3. Metrobank Simply Miles Card
For those who want to accumulate miles with every purchase, the Metrobank Simply Miles Card is an excellent option. It offers 1 mile for every P40 spent and provides special promotions for flight bookings.
Pros:
- Ideal for travelers who want to earn miles
- Special promotions on flights and travel
- Low annual fee
Cons:
- Miles accumulation may take time
- No cashback rewards for non-travel purchases
Price: P2,500 annual fee
Features:
- Earn 1 mile per P40 spent
- Travel-related rewards and promotions
- Low annual fee
Where to Buy: Apply directly on Metrobank’s website.
How to Apply for a Metrobank Credit Card
Applying for a Metrobank credit card is a simple process. You can start by visiting the official Metrobank website and selecting the credit card that suits your needs. The application form will ask for personal details such as your name, address, contact number, and financial information. Depending on the type of credit card you are applying for, Metrobank may also request documents like proof of income, a valid ID, and other verification documents.
Once your application is submitted, Metrobank will review your eligibility, and if approved, your new credit card will be sent to you within a few days.
Where to Buy:
Apply directly through the Metrobank website or visit one of their branches.
FAQs
1. What is the annual fee for a Metrobank credit card?
The annual fee for Metrobank credit cards varies depending on the card type. For instance, the Metrobank Cashback Card offers zero annual fee for the first year, while the Metrobank Travel Platinum Card has an annual fee of P5,000.
2. How can I apply for a Metrobank credit card secured option?
To apply for a Metrobank credit card secured, you will need to provide proof of identity and income, as well as a security deposit. This deposit will serve as your credit limit.
3. Are there any special promotions or rewards for Metrobank credit cardholders?
Yes, Metrobank offers exclusive promotions, including cashback deals, travel rewards, and discounts with partner merchants. Be sure to check the Metrobank website for the latest offers.