More Filipinos are turning to buy now, pay later (BNPL) services for everyday spending, with Atome Philippines reporting that its PayLater Anywhere Card has now been issued to more than 3 million customers nationwide.
In a press release, the company said the card is increasingly being used for routine expenses rather than occasional big-ticket purchases.
Groceries, food, household items, mobile load, and utility bill payments are now among the most common transactions made through the platform.
According to Atome, around 80% of its cardholders are first-time card users, while 65% are women, suggesting that flexible payment solutions are helping more Filipinos gain access to formal credit for the first time.
The company also said adoption has expanded beyond Metro Manila, with customers now using the card across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao as demand grows for more accessible payment and financing options.
The shift reflects how BNPL services are evolving in the Philippines. Originally associated with retail purchases, these payment solutions are increasingly becoming part of consumers’ day-to-day financial routines, offering an alternative to traditional credit cards for everyday spending.
AUB financing supports broader PayLater card adoption
Photo shows (from left) AUB executives Wilfredo Rodriguez Jr. and Ernesto Uy with Atome Philippines’ Christian Quiros and Andy Tan.
To support the continued growth of its payment and lending services, Atome has secured a ₱5-billion wholesale credit facility from Asia United Bank (AUB).
The peso-denominated facility will help finance the continued expansion of the PayLater Anywhere Card while further diversifying the company’s local funding sources.
“The credit facility reflects AUB’s commitment to supporting responsible fintech platforms that strengthen the Philippine financial ecosystem,” said Wilfredo Rodriguez Jr., executive vice president and IT and Operations Head, AUB.
Ernesto Uy, executive vice president and Account Management Head, added that the partnership supports financial inclusion while maintaining prudent credit standards.
BNPL evolves beyond checkout into everyday payments
For Atome, the funding comes as it continues expanding its consumer finance ecosystem in the Philippines, which also includes personal loans, savings products, and insurance.
“The closing of AUB’s ₱5-billion facility validates Atome’s market position and delivers competitive, PHP-denominated funding at meaningful scale,” said Christian Quiros, president and country manager of Atome Philippines.
He said the facility will strengthen the company’s ability to grow by diversifying its local funding sources, while supporting its efforts to expand responsible financial services for underbanked Filipinos.
As digital payments continue to evolve, BNPL providers are no longer competing solely at online checkouts. They are increasingly positioning themselves as everyday payment tools, giving consumers greater flexibility in managing regular household expenses while introducing more Filipinos to formal financial services.
