The local government of Botolan has officially rolled out the Paleng-QR PH Plus program, advancing faster, safer, and more convenient cashless transactions for residents and local businesses.

Mayor Jun Omar Ebdane led the launch on April 29, joined by representatives from national agencies, financial institutions, and community partners. The initiative was showcased through test purchases at the Botolan People’s Market, gasoline stations, and among tricycle drivers.

Ebdane said the system offers a secure and efficient alternative to cash, allowing residents to complete transactions through a simple QR code scan. He added that the program reflects the town’s readiness to embrace modernization and digital transformation.

The Paleng-QR PH Plus, introduced in 2022 by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, enables payments using QR Ph codes through mobile banking apps and e-wallets. It reduces reliance on physical cash, ensures exact payments, and minimizes risks such as counterfeit currency.

The program also promotes financial inclusion by allowing market vendors and tricycle drivers to participate in the digital financial ecosystem.

As of March 2026, more than 1,120 local government units across 45 provinces and Metro Manila have adopted the system.

The rollout in Botolan was carried out in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Information and Communications Technology, along with local groups including the Botolan People’s Market Vendors Association and the Botolan Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association.

Financial partners supporting the initiative include GCash, Maya, China Bank Corporation, Land Bank of the Philippines, Philippine National Bank, Social Security System, Zambales Rural Bank, and Producers Bank.

Botolan is the third municipality in Zambales to adopt the Paleng-QR PH Plus, following San Marcelino and Cabangan.