How to Buy and Use Bitcoin in the Philippines

If you’re in the Philippines and thinking about getting into Bitcoin, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. Let’s go over how it works here, from the legal side of things to where you can buy, store, and even spend your Bitcoin.

Is Bitcoin Legal in the Philippines?

Yes, Bitcoin is legal to use and trade in the Philippines. The country actually has clear rules in place to help keep things safe. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) are the two main authorities keeping an eye on the crypto scene.

Any exchange operating in the country needs a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license from BSP. This license lets them handle crypto transactions legally. On top of that, Circular No. 944 lays out how crypto exchanges should work to prevent illegal activities like money laundering.

Meanwhile, the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) created its own set of rules—called DATO—for businesses offering digital tokens. These are meant to encourage growth in the crypto space while keeping things in line with existing laws.

Where to Buy Bitcoin in the Philippines

Once you know the rules, the next step is finding a place to buy Bitcoin. There are plenty of exchanges—both local and international—that work in the Philippines. Here are a few popular ones:

• Coins.ph is a go-to for many Filipinos because it supports local currency and offers easy deposits through GCash, banks, and more.
• Binance is one of the biggest global exchanges, and it supports PHP through bank transfers and debit cards.
• PDAX is a local platform fully licensed by BSP. It offers easy trading in pesos and supports transfers from local banks.
• Bybit is well-known for futures and margin trading, which appeals more to seasoned traders.
• KuCoin has a wide selection of coins beyond just Bitcoin and is popular for its low fees and easy-to-use platform.

Each one has different features, so pick the one that best matches your experience level and what you’re trying to do.

How to Buy Bitcoin With PHP

Buying Bitcoin in the Philippines is pretty simple. Here’s how people usually do it:

• Bank transfers are one of the most common methods. Coins.ph, Binance, and PDAX all support local bank deposits.
• GCash users can buy Bitcoin directly inside the app through the GCrypto feature.
• Debit or credit cards, as well as Google Pay or Apple Pay, are accepted on several exchanges for instant purchases.
• Cash is still an option. Some cities have Bitcoin ATMs, and you can also buy directly from other users through peer-to-peer platforms.

Once you’ve made your purchase, consider moving your Bitcoin to a secure personal wallet. Whether it’s a hardware device or a mobile app with strong security, keeping your crypto safe should be a priority.

Can Foreigners Buy Bitcoin in the Philippines?

Yes, foreigners can legally buy Bitcoin in the Philippines. However, exchanges may ask for extra documents to confirm residency or immigration status. Once verified, they can use the same platforms and payment methods as locals.

Where Can You Spend Bitcoin in the Philippines?

Once you own some Bitcoin, you can actually use it to pay for things. More than 400 businesses in the Philippines now accept Bitcoin, especially in cities like Cebu, Iloilo, Dumaguete, and Bacolod.

You can use Bitcoin at:

• Metrodeal and CashCashPinoy for local deals and discounts
• TrueProperty if you’re looking to buy real estate
• The Bunny Baker, a bakery where you can grab cakes with crypto
• URBN QC, a bar in Metro Manila that lets you pay with Bitcoin
• Philippine Airlines also accepts Bitcoin for bookings made through Coins.ph. And if you’re flying with Cebu Pacific, you can redeem your GetGo points using LoyalCoin, another digital asset.

Can You Use Bitcoin on Lazada or Shopee?

Not directly. Lazada and Shopee don’t yet support crypto payments. But there’s a workaround—you can buy gift cards for these platforms using Bitcoin through services like Bitrefill or CoinGate, then shop as usual.

Bitcoin Island in Boracay

If you’re heading to Boracay, you’re in for a surprise. It’s one of the most Bitcoin-friendly spots in the country, with over 130 merchants accepting crypto. Cafes, resorts, restaurants—you name it, and chances are you can pay with Bitcoin there.

Some of the top Bitcoin-friendly places in Boracay include:

• Real Coffee & Tea Café
• Los Indios Bravos
• Subo Boracay
• Lemoni Café
• Dos Mestizos
• Boracay Beach Club
• Spider House Resort
• Nigi Nigi Nu Noos

Boracay’s Bitcoin ecosystem is supported by Pouch.ph, which uses the Lightning Network to make payments fast and cheap. That means even small purchases—like a coffee—can be done with Bitcoin, instantly.

Ready to Start?

Buying and using Bitcoin in the Philippines is more accessible than ever. From local apps like Coins.ph to global platforms like Binance and KuCoin, you’ve got plenty of options. Once you buy your Bitcoin, keep it safe, and you’ll be able to trade, invest, or even spend it while exploring everything the country has to offer.