Maya Black: Redefining Credit Cards for Filipinos

Maya Black: Redefining Credit Cards for Filipinos

A Revolutionary Move in Philippine Credit

April 30, 2025 – Manila, Philippines — Maya, the country’s top fintech ecosystem and #1 digital bank, is shaking up the credit card game in the Philippines with its new Maya Black Credit Card (Maya Black). Designed for mobile-first users, this black-tier credit card is powered by Maya’s proprietary data and AI-driven credit models, setting a new standard for accessibility and inclusivity in the market.

The Maya Black is not just any credit card; it is positioned to cater to modern Filipino consumers, especially those without traditional credit histories. By leveraging technology, Maya has created a card that offers fast approval, instant virtual card issuance, and full in-app control—a major departure from the slow and tedious processes of traditional banks. With its sleek, numberless physical card delivered after approval, Maya Black is challenging the notion that premium credit cards are exclusive to high earners with lengthy credit records.

“Credit cards have long symbolized financial freedom and status—but for most Filipinos, they’ve remained out of reach. With Maya Black, we’re democratizing access and making it the most desirable card in the market,” said Shailesh Baidwan, Maya Group President and Co-Founder.

Credit Designed for a Digital-First Generation

The Maya Black takes a radically different approach to credit card eligibility. Its AI-driven credit scoring model evaluates applicants based on transactional data and alternative credit data—meaning even those without a credit history have a chance to be approved.

For users who need a stepping stone, Maya offers a secured card pathway. This option, fully integrated within the app, eliminates the need for reapplication and traditional paperwork. This is part of Maya’s commitment to making financial services more inclusive and convenient.

The entire process is fully digital. From application to approval and card management, everything is done via the Maya app. Once approved, users instantly receive a virtual card that’s ready to use, while the sleek, numberless physical card follows shortly after. All card details are securely stored in the app, where users can easily freeze, replace, or manage their card settings in real time.

“We designed Maya Black for a generation that expects instant, mobile-first banking. This isn’t just another credit card—it’s a re-engineered experience,” said Angelo Madrid, President of Maya Bank.

Premium Benefits Right Out of the Gate

Maya Black users gain access to a variety of perks from the moment they activate their cards:

• Earn Maya Miles on every transaction. These can be tracked in real time and redeemed as currency across Maya’s merchant network, converted into Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay Miles, or spent on other travel rewards—all within the app.
• 3,000 bonus miles upon activating the physical card and making a ₱5,000 spend within 60 days.
• Exclusive airport lounge access via DragonPass, including PAGSS and Marhaba lounges in NAIA.
• Widely accepted at over 130 million merchants worldwide through Visa.
• Advanced in-app security with card numbers visible only via the app, plus real-time freeze and replace features.

Addressing Credit Access Challenges in the Philippines

The demand for credit cards in the Philippines is on the rise. According to Google Philippines, searches for credit cards now account for 38% of financial product interest. However, access remains limited.

A 2021 Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Financial Inclusion Survey revealed that 56% of Filipino adults find it difficult to qualify for a credit card. As of Q4 2023, only 15% of Filipino adults held a credit card, despite a year-over-year growth in card issuance. Out of a population of over 70 million adults, penetration remains low.

Maya Black aims to fill this gap. By removing traditional barriers and embracing AI-powered credit models, Maya is expanding financial inclusion, particularly among its Millennial and Gen Z user base. This launch follows the success of the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card, which has already seen nearly 200,000 cards issued.

Building Trust in the Market

Maya’s rollout of Maya Black signals a bold shift in how Filipinos perceive credit. By focusing on transparency, digital convenience, and security, the brand is giving users more control over their financial journeys. The virtual-first approach removes the intimidation that often comes with traditional credit applications while offering users a clear and instant pathway to financial empowerment.

This isn’t just about issuing cards. It’s about reshaping the financial landscape, making credit accessible, desirable, and practical for everyday Filipinos. With benefits like real-time spend tracking and travel perks, Maya Black positions itself as more than a financial tool—it’s an enabler of lifestyle upgrades.

What’s Next for Maya?

With the Maya Black Credit Card now available, Maya is poised to solidify its place as the Philippines’ leading digital-first financial ecosystem. The company is expected to continue leveraging its AI models and data insights to roll out innovative solutions that bridge gaps in financial inclusion.

As Maya Bank’s user base grows, products like Maya Black signal a step toward empowering more Filipinos with accessible, premium financial services. The democratization of credit is no longer just a vision—it’s here, and it’s reshaping the game.