Is this the best travel credit card yet?
The ballroom at the Grand Hyatt Manila was awash in shades of blue with touches of gold recently when BDO Unibank Inc. and Visa launched the BDO Visa Signature, the new travel rebate credit card.
The walls inside the ballroom were covered with fabric, while off to one side was a photo wall showing different travel destinations. Next to it was a bar where a mixologist prepared both alcohol-based cocktails and mocktails inspired by Italy, Spain, Turkiye, and Greece.
The decision to focus on these countries was something that had been planned months ago with chef Mark Hagan, even before he was appointed Grand Hyatt Manila’s F&B director. Hagan came up with a range of savory cocktail items including mushroom tortellini with duck ragout representing Italy; various Spanish pintxos or bar fare including jamon Iberico with goat cheese and quince jam; Turkish doner with homemade garlic sauce and pita; and mini moussaka and souvlaki representing Greece.
The heady aromas were all cleverly hidden from guests by an automatic folding wall while the new card and its features were being presented.
“BDO already has so many cards. Do we need another one?” asked Rolando C. Tanchanco, BDO senior executive vice president and consumer banking group head in his opening remarks.
He answered his own question, saying, “Yes, there’s still room for something better, something that you can experience beyond what you’ve already experienced. We put a little twist to the card—a little spice if you will—for those customers who are looking for something a little bit more.”
The BDO Visa Signature is designed to cater to the global Filipino and offers a 3-percent travel rebate on overseas and airline spend, and 0.3 percent on everything else, as well as up to P2,500 rebate per month.
Cashback, discounts
Cardholders can also look forward to perks including 1.7 percent low foreign exchange conversion on overseas purchases, up to P20 million travel insurance coverage, and complimentary global lounge privilege with access to over 1,600 VIP airport lounges worldwide.
“On top of that, BDO Visa Signature Cardholders get to enjoy year-round superior cashback and discount promos in dining, travel, and shopping that BDO Credit Cards are known for,” added Ma. Nannette Regala, senior vice president and consumer banking group marketing head of BDO Unibank, in an email interview with Lifestyle.
Of the card’s many features, she was particularly proud of the rebates offered to cardholders. “The new BDO Visa Signature gives 3-percent rebate on airline and overseas spends, and 0.3 percent on everything else. With a P10,000 international spend, you earn a P300 rebate that is automatically credited to your BDO Visa Signature and is reflected on your statement of account. Earn up to P2,500 rebate per month which you can use on your next trip! It just makes travel more rewarding,” Regala said.
“We always seek ways to provide our cardholders with better benefits and experiences. BDO Visa Signature is the perfect credit card for the elite traveler, offering generous travel rebates, low foreign exchange rates, exclusive access to VIP airport lounges, and comprehensive travel insurance. Our cardholders can expect to travel in style and comfort with these exclusive perks and privileges,” Tanchanco said in a statement.
Luxury hotel partners
On top of the perks already mentioned, cardholders can also gain access to over 900 luxury hotel partners worldwide through the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection website. They can access exclusive perks such as best available rate guarantee, automatic room upgrades, VIP guest status, late check-out, and complimentary breakfast. They can also take advantage of special offers on shopping, dining, and travel throughout the year, both locally and internationally.
“We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone in our partnership with BDO through the launch of BDO Visa Signature, marking Visa’s first product launch with BDO since they began issuing Visa cards,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Visa Philippines’ country manager. “BDO Visa Signature is designed to transform the travel experience for affluent Filipino travelers.”
Regala added that the card is targeted at “discerning Filipino travelers with a penchant for bespoke experiences, comfort, and premium perks. It offers premium benefits for those who frequently travel the world for business and pleasure.
“Having this card as a travel companion, with all its benefits, can make every trip an empowering experience. Every spend using the BDO Visa Signature can accumulate rebates that they can enjoy in their next adventure. It has a comprehensive suite of benefits that go beyond just travel, but encompass spending, relaxation, and access to exclusive privileges. What’s more, BDO Visa Signature offers a P15,000 welcome bonus for those who will apply and use their card for a minimum of P75,000,” she added.
Visit www.bdo.com.ph/visa-signature-welcome-offer.
