Premium Credit Cards in the Philippines:
Why the Country's Elite Should Have One

It's not a stretch to say that many dream of a life of luxury—endless travels, dining in high-end restaurants, and indulging in whatever their heart desires. For the Philippines' elite, this dream lifestyle also includes owning a premium credit card.

A symbol of success, premium credit cards are an exclusive key to unlocking unparalleled experiences that reflect one's refined taste.

In this blog, we'll explore why premium credit cards in the Philippines are essential to living without limits and how exclusive perks can satisfy big-ticket lifestyles.

What is a Premium Credit Card?

Premium credit cards are high-end financial products that offer exclusive benefits and top-notch services. These cards are synonymous with luxury, providing access to VIP airport lounges, dining experiences, comprehensive travel insurance, etc.

Unlike standard credit cards focused primarily on everyday spending and basic rewards, the perks of premium credit cards enhance the convenience, security, and personalized services of credit card ownership. As such, premium credit cards often have higher credit limits that match A-listers' financial capacity and spending habits.

However, these financial products typically require a higher annual fee to cover the extensive perks and privileges they provide. Likewise, you must meet strict eligibility requirements to qualify for a premium credit card. Some cards are even invitation-only.

7 Reasons to Have Premium Credit Cards in the Philippines

Here are the top advantages of getting a premium credit card.

1. Exclusive access to premier airport lounges
   Airports are always busy, with travelers rushing through immigration and to their gates. You'd want a place to relax before your flight amid long lines and crowds. Luckily, premium credit cards offer exclusive access to top airport lounges, both locally and internationally.
   
   These lounges offer a tranquil space with complimentary food, beverages, Wi-Fi, and even showers. For example, if you're flying out of NAIA Terminal 3, RCBC premium credit cards grant you access to the PAGSS International Lounge. You can even bring one travel companion with you for free.
2. Round-the-clock concierge service
   
   Premium credit cards often come with 24/7 concierge services, offering personalized assistance whenever needed. Whether you're booking a last-minute reservation, securing hard-to-find concert tickets, or arranging a surprise gift, your card's concierge service can make it happen.
   
   You can experience these niceties with services such as Visa Concierge, courtesy of RCBC Visa Infinite or Visa Platinum. This service is available in the Philippines and other Asia-Pacific countries like Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, China, and Japan.
   
   In addition to these premium services, RCBC Premium Credit Cardholders enjoy exclusive access to a dedicated customer support hotline at (02) 8888-1883. This ensures that assistance is just a call away, providing you with enhanced support tailored to your needs at any time.
3. Extensive purchase and insurance coverage
   Premium credit cards stand out for their comprehensive coverage, merging purchase protection with extensive insurance benefits. This means you can shop confidently, knowing that high-value purchases are protected against damage, theft, or loss for a specified period.
   
   For instance, if a new smartphone is accidentally damaged or stolen, your card’s purchase protection can reimburse or replace it, offering peace of mind that standard cards often lack.
   
   If exceptional service and a symbol of undeniable status are just what you’re looking for, the RCBC Visa Platinum and Visa Infinite cards provide exclusive benefits tailored for the elite.
   
   These premium cards not only safeguard luxury items like watches and high-end electronics but also feature a sleek and elegant design. The Visa Infinite is distinguished by its striking metal core, underscoring its exclusivity.
   
   Additionally, they come with complimentary travel insurance, demonstrating RCBC’s unwavering commitment to delivering a premium experience for its cardholders.
   
   The coverage benefits does not end there. Premium credit cards also include comprehensive insurance coverage, such as travel insurance, medical evacuation, and car rental insurance. When you book flights or accommodations with your premium card, you gain automatic protection against trip cancellations, lost luggage, and medical emergencies abroad.
   
   RCBC further enhances this experience with robust insurance offerings, like the RCBC World Mastercard's complimentary travel insurance, which covers medical expenses, emergency evacuations, daily in-hospital cash benefits, and overseas quarantine allowances.
   
   Together, these features ensure your financial security, whether making luxury purchases or traveling internationally.
4. Significant credit score standing
   If you're looking for a way to build your credit score while enjoying the high life, premium credit cards are an excellent choice. Since these cards are typically available only to those with excellent credit histories, securing one means you've met all the requirements with flying colors.
   
   When you responsibly manage the higher credit limits these cards offer, banks recognize that you're a low-risk borrower. The result is improved credit standing over time and a strong financial history, allowing you to benefit from better interest rates on loans, mortgages, and future credit cards.
5. Higher transaction rewards
   
   With every purchase using a premium credit card, you accumulate points faster than with a standard card. That means you can earn significantly higher rewards, including points redeemable for free flights or hotel stays and cashback.
   
   Take RCBC's Black Card Platinum Mastercard as an example. You can earn and exchange flexible, non-expiring rewards points for AIRMILES, cash rebates, shopping vouchers, credit to your RCBC Credit Card, deposits to your RCBC account, or charity donations.
6. Luxury perks and deals
   Premium credit card luxury perks and exclusive deals complement extravagant lifestyles. They provide access to exclusive events, luxury hotel discounts, and VIP treatment at select venues.
   
   If you frequently travel to Japan with a JCB Platinum, you have complimentary access to JCB-selected lounges worldwide through the LoungeKey service. This service provides up to 20% discounts on car rental services and a 24/7 concierge desk for personalized assistance.
7. Easily donate to a worthy cause
   For many individuals, particularly those who value giving back and supporting social causes, a premium credit card can be a valuable tool. These cards often come with features designed to make charitable giving easier and more integrated into your financial routine.
   
   By allowing you to donate directly through your premium credit card, you can effortlessly align your financial resources with your commitment to making a positive impact. This convenience helps you fulfill your sense of corporate and personal social responsibility in a meaningful way.
   
   If you want to do just that, RCBC’s Diamond Card Platinum Mastercard is everything you want, and more.
   
   With the Diamond Card, every ₱100 you charge automatically donates ₱0.10 to your chosen charity—Gawad Kalinga’s Kusina ng Kalinga, Zonta Foundation for Women, or WWF—through the Diamond Cares Program. Switch charities monthly or anytime you like. Plus, enjoy flexible Rewards Points for AIRMILES, Cash Rebates, Vouchers, or Donations.
   
   Benefit from up to ₱1,000,000 in Travel Insurance, Purchase Protection for international travel, unlimited lounge access, and Mastercard eCommerce Purchase Protection for global and local purchases.

Live the High Life with RCBC Premium Credit Cards

A premium credit card is key to unlocking a world of luxury, convenience, and exclusive benefits—a lifestyle upgrade anyone could wish for.

If you're looking for the best premium credit card in the Philippines, look no further than RCBC Premium Credit Cards. Enjoy exclusive perks, from travel rewards and luxury experiences to unparalleled security and convenience. With our premium cards, you can indulge in the finer things without hassle.

Explore RCBC Premium Credit Cards to see which perfectly complements your lifestyle.