Best American Express credit cards in the Philippines

American Express has long stood for exclusivity, service, and rewards. In the Philippines, through its exclusive partnership with BDO Unibank, the brand offers a diverse portfolio of credit cards that cater to various lifestyles.

From entry-level options to invitation-only premium products, every card carries its own set of privileges.

Understanding which card suits best depends on income, spending habits, and personal goals.

Below is an overview of the best American Express credit cards available in the Philippines, highlighting their benefits, features, and unique advantages.

🏆 The Platinum Card® – By Invitation

The Platinum Card is often described as the pinnacle of privilege. It is not just a credit card but a symbol of access.

Key features include:

• 1 Membership Rewards® point per USD 1 spent, with points that never expire.
• Unlimited global lounge access through the AmEx Lounge Collection, including Centurion®, Priority Pass™, Delta SkyClub®, and Tower Club Singapore.
• Travel insurance covering up to USD 2,000,000 in medical expenses and USD 500,000 in accident protection.
• Concierge service 24/7, plus elite status upgrades in hotel programs such as Hilton Gold and Radisson Premium.

This card is invitation-only, reserved for individuals with exceptional financial profiles.

💼 American Express® Platinum Credit Card (BDO)

For premium benefits without invitation-only status, the Platinum Credit Card from BDO is the strongest option.

Highlights:

• 1 Membership Rewards® point per PHP 45 or per USD 1 spent.
• Complimentary access to PAGSS International Lounges at NAIA.
• Travel accident insurance up to PHP 20 million.
• Concierge support available day and night.
• Annual fee: PHP 5,000 for the principal card; PHP 2,500 for supplementary cards, with up to five companions free for life.

It combines local relevance with international prestige.

✈️ American Express® Explorer™ Credit Card

As its name suggests, the Explorer card is built for those who value travel.

Main advantages:

• 1 Membership Rewards® point per PHP 40 spent—the most competitive accumulation rate.
• Free access to PAGSS Lounges in NAIA.
• Annual bonus of 2,000 Membership Rewards® points for spending PHP 600,000 in a year.
• Comprehensive travel insurance up to PHP 10 million, covering delays, baggage loss, and cancellations.
• Multiple installment options such as Buy Now, Pay Later, Purchase Convert, Balance Convert, and Cash Installment.

It rewards frequent travelers and heavy spenders with flexibility and peace of mind.

💸 American Express® Cashback Credit Card

For simplicity and practicality, the Cashback Card is one of the most direct options.

Benefits include:

• 1% cashback on local purchases.
• 2% cashback on international spending.
• No minimum spend requirement and no cashback ceiling.
• Affordable monthly fee: PHP 250 for the principal card and PHP 125 for each supplementary card.

Straightforward and effective, it appeals to cardholders who want guaranteed returns without complication.

🔵 Blue from American Express®

The Blue card offers accessibility while still providing rewards and features.

Key features:

• 1 Membership Rewards® point per PHP 45 spent.
• First annual fee waived.
• Affordable renewal fee: PHP 150 for the principal card and PHP 75 for each supplementary card.
• 24/7 customer service.

This card is ideal for those beginning their journey with American Express.

💻 BDO American Express® Virtual Card

In a digital-driven economy, the Virtual Card addresses online safety and convenience.

Highlights:

• Designed exclusively for secure online transactions.
• Linked directly to an active American Express account.
• Adjustable credit limits for controlled spending.
• Ability to earn Membership Rewards® points or cashback, depending on the primary card linked.
• No enrollment fee.

It provides peace of mind for e-commerce and online services.

🟡 American Express® Gold Card

The Gold Card balances prestige and practicality. It is especially attractive to cardholders seeking global access without a spending cap.

Main benefits:

• 1 Membership Rewards® point per USD 1 spent.
• No pre-set spending limit, with billing in U.S. dollars.
• Extensive travel insurance and global assistance services.
• Discounts through the American Express Selects® program, covering lifestyle, shopping, and wellness.

It reflects flexibility, power, and recognition in one product.

📊 Choosing the Best AmEx Card

With multiple options available, cardholders must decide based on lifestyle and priorities.

• For elite privileges and travel benefits: The Platinum Card® or Platinum Credit Card.
• For frequent flyers: Explorer Credit Card, with high point accumulation and comprehensive insurance.
• For practical daily returns: Cashback Credit Card.
• For entry-level access: Blue from AmEx.
• For online security: Virtual Card.
• For flexibility and prestige: Gold Card.

No single product fits everyone. The best card is the one aligned with spending patterns, income, and goals.

🎯 Final Insights

American Express credit cards in the Philippines reflect a spectrum—from entry-level accessibility to invitation-only exclusivity. All are issued through BDO Unibank, ensuring consistency in standards and service.

Three constants define these products: rewards that matter, benefits that extend beyond payments, and service that remains available anytime.

Choosing the right AmEx card is less about prestige alone and more about aligning privileges with personal needs.

❓ FAQ – Best American Express Credit Cards in the Philippines

Which AmEx card offers the best travel perks?
The Platinum Card® provides the most extensive privileges, including unlimited global lounge access.

Which card has the best rewards rate?
The Explorer Credit Card, with 1 Membership Rewards® point per PHP 40 spent.

Is there a cashback option?
Yes, the Cashback Credit Card offers 1% local and 2% international cashback.

Which card is most affordable?
Blue from AmEx, with low annual fees and waived first-year charges.

Which card is best for online shopping?
The BDO AmEx Virtual Card, offering secure digital transactions.