Visa says December is the peak spending month for Filipinos, with local transactions hitting their highest point on Dec. 23. while overseas spending peaks later on Dec. 28.
Insights from Visa Consulting and Analytics (VCA) indicate that active card payment volume increases significantly during the festive season compared to the rest of the year.
The data, drawn from physical card-present transactions, highlights a shift in consumer behavior as Filipinos balance local holiday preparations with year-end international travel.
Local card transactions rise steadily throughout the month with notable spikes every weekend. The peak on Dec. 23 reflects the final rush in malls and commercial districts before Christmas Eve family celebrations. Domestic spending generally eases following this date as consumers return to their hometowns.
For Filipinos traveling abroad, spending accelerates after Christmas Day. This international spree reaches its height on Dec. 28 and tapers off toward the New Year, indicating continued leisure and travel-related purchases during vacations.
The holiday season also sees a surge in foreign spending within the Philippines driven by tourists and returning overseas Filipinos. The top inbound corridors by payment volume include the United States, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Singapore.
Holiday spending is distributed across the country rather than being confined to the capital. While Makati and Parañaque lead in volume, 6 of the top 10 destinations are outside Metro Manila, including Cebu, Angeles and Davao.
Spending habits differ based on the origin of the visitor. Tourists from the US, South Korea, Singapore, Australia and Hong Kong spend the most on lodging.
Visitors from Taiwan and Japan favor entertainment, while Indian travelers allocate more to education and government services. Canadians and many Americans prioritize food and groceries.
Visa Philippines country manager Jeffrey Navarro said the data underscores the enduring socio-cultural and economic significance of the holidays to the country. Navarro said the company remains focused on enabling fast and secure payments to facilitate these personal journeys.
Visa, a global leader in digital payments, facilitates transactions across more than 200 countries and territories. The company aims to connect consumers, businesses and government entities through its secure payments network.
