DigiPlus Partners with Bayad to Simplify OTC Payments Across the Philippines .The digital payment landscape in the Philippines is evolving rapidly, and a new partnership is set to reshape the way millions of Filipinos make cash deposits for gaming and other services.
DigiPlus Interactive Corporation recently joined forces with Bayad, which is a leading payment service provider, to expand over-the-counter (OTC) payment options nationwide.
This collaboration aims to give users greater convenience by enabling cash deposits through more than 800 Bayad outlets, located in malls, supermarkets, and convenience stores. The partnership also aligns with the Bangko Sentral NG Pilipinas (BSP) directive to remove gambling links from digital wallets, providing a compliant and accessible cash transaction solution.
DigiPlus-Bayad Partnership for OTC Payments: Overview
Here is an easy-to-understand overview of this new partnership:
| Feature | Details |
| Partnership Type | Exclusive partnership for OTC payments |
| Companies Involved | DigiPlus Interactive Corporation and Bayad |
| Nationwide Bayad Outlets | Over 800 across malls, supermarkets, stores |
| Payment Type | Over-the-counter cash deposits |
| Regulatory Compliance | Follows BSP rules, removing gambling on e-wallets |
| Target Users | Cash-reliant gaming customers |
| Future Services | Plans to add cash-out and app-based services |
| Strategic Advantage | Bayad is DigiPlus’ sole cash-in partner |
OTC Payments in the Philippines: Meeting Consumer Needs
Despite rising digital wallet use, cash remains the most popular payment method for many Filipinos, especially outside major cities.
The DigiPlus-Bayad partnership recognizes this preference, offering a simple and reliable way to deposit money for online gaming on platforms like BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone.
With thousands of cash outlets, users benefit from the convenience of multiple physical locations near their homes or workplaces, bridging the gap for those without easy access to digital banking.
Strengthening Physical Payment Networks with Bayad
Bayad, previously Bayad Center and owned by Meralco, is a trusted name in the Philippines for bill payments and remittances. Its extensive network of over 800 payment centers gives the partnership unmatched reach.
These outlets are strategically located at accessible venues such as malls, convenience stores, and supermarkets across the country. The partnership expands Bayad’s role to include OTC payment services for DigiPlus gaming customers, ensuring fast, secure, and regulated cash transactions.
Andy Tsui, President of DigiPlus Interactive, emphasized the focus on financial inclusion, saying, “This partnership is part of our commitment to providing more accessible and compliant payment options that meet the needs of all customers.”
Navigating Regulatory Changes: BSP Directives and Gaming Payments
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas recently mandated the removal of gambling platform connections from e-wallets to tighten controls and prevent illegal activities.
This ruling had the unintended effect of limiting online gaming customers’ digital cash-in options, making it harder to deposit funds via popular e-wallets.
DigiPlus’ move to partner with Bayad for OTC payments is a smart response, aligning with BSP regulations while restoring payment flexibility for users.
This blend of compliance and accessibility demonstrates the emergence of a “hybrid payment system” combining traditional and digital methods.
Exclusive Access and Strategic Market Position
Under the new agreement, Bayad is the exclusive over-the-counter cash-in partner for DigiPlus services. This exclusivity gives DigiPlus a competitive advantage, controlling a vital payment channel in the Philippine market.
Bayad is responsible for delivering secure and speedy cash deposits, reinforcing its position as a premier payment service provider.
Lawrence Ferrer, Bayad’s CEO, said the partnership responds to strong demand for regulatory-compliant, reliable OTC payment solutions: “Our collaboration with DigiPlus highlights the growth potential of cash-based transactions alongside digital platforms.”
Future Expansion: Cash-Out Services and App Integration
The current partnership phase focuses on facilitating cash deposits. Both DigiPlus and Bayad have announced plans to roll out cash-out services at physical Bayad locations soon. This expansion would let users withdraw winnings, enhancing the overall gaming payment experience.
Bayad also intends to integrate these services within its popular mobile app, potentially allowing app-based cash-in and cash-out transactions, bridging digital convenience with physical access.
While no exact timeline has been revealed for these enhancements, the future phases promise even more seamless financial services for gaming customers throughout the Philippines.
Economic and Social Impact of DigiPlus-Bayad Collaboration
The partnership is expected to positively influence the Philippine gaming industry by promoting transparency and financial oversight.
Using Bayad’s regulated OTC network, DigiPlus can implement stricter anti-money laundering (AML) measures and transaction monitoring in line with government standards.
This can help legitimize online gaming payments, a sector that has increasingly attracted regulatory attention.
Dr. Ricardo Mendoza, an economist at Ateneo de Manila University, emphasized this point: “Physical payment infrastructures remain essential in the Philippines, especially for communities with limited digital access.
Combining cash payment options with digital oversight presents a balanced approach to financial inclusion.”
What’s Next for the Gaming Payment Ecosystem?
DigiPlus’ partnership with Bayad sets a strong precedent for other gaming operators navigating heightened regulatory scrutiny.
As BSP continues tightening rules around financial transactions linked to gaming, OTC payments via trusted providers offer a practical solution to stay compliant while serving customers.
Experts believe the success of upcoming cash-out options will be a key metric in assessing the partnership’s long-term benefits.
A fully integrated cash-in and cash-out system accessible both physically and digitally can drive greater trust, convenience, and participation in regulated gaming.
FAQs: DigiPlus and Bayad OTC Payment Partnership
It provides DigiPlus users with cash-in services through 800+ Bayad centers nationwide, with cash-out plans forthcoming.
It responds to BSP rules banning gambling links on e-wallets, preserving regulated cash payment access.
Over 800 Bayad Centers and partner stores across the Philippines.
Cash-out services are planned but not yet available; they will be introduced in later phases.
Yes. It strengthens compliance with BSP and AML regulations through a regulated payment network.
Absolutely. It enhances access for those preferring or relying on cash payments outside urban areas.