Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) officers led by President Edward Du attended the Implementation of the PALENG-QR PH Program, a program jointly advocated by NOCCI, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Department of Interior and Local Government which aims to build the digital payments ecosystem in the country by promoting cashless payments in public markets and local transportation particularly tricycles.
NOCCI Champions Cashless Payments with Paleng-QR PH Initiative
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), led by President Edward Du, reaffirmed its commitment to fostering digital innovation and economic inclusivity by actively participating in the implementation of the Paleng-QR PH Program. The program, championed by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), seeks to build a robust digital payments ecosystem in the Philippines by promoting cashless transactions in public markets and local transportation systems, including tricycles.
A Bold Step Toward Digital Transformation
The Paleng-QR PH Program was created to encourage digital adoption among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and individual service providers. By introducing QR-based payment systems, the initiative aims to empower vendors, tricycle drivers, and small business owners to embrace cashless transactions, ensuring both convenience and financial security.
NOCCI, as a key advocate for digital transformation, has partnered with BSP and DILG to ensure the program’s successful rollout across Negros Oriental. Speaking at the event, NOCCI President Edward Du highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating:
“The Paleng-QR PH Program is not just a push for modernization; it’s a pathway to financial inclusion. By enabling cashless payments, we are providing our local vendors and transport operators with opportunities to thrive in a digital economy.”
Implementation Highlights
Held in Dumaguete City, the event brought together representatives from BSP, DILG, and local government units alongside NOCCI officers, stakeholders, and participants from the public market and transportation sectors. Key activities included:
- Orientation on Digital Payments
BSP representatives provided an in-depth explanation of the Paleng-QR PH Program, detailing its benefits and guiding participants on how to use QR codes for cashless transactions. - Digital Onboarding for Vendors and Drivers
With support from NOCCI and local government units, market vendors and tricycle operators were onboarded to various digital payment platforms, including GCash and Maya. This step ensured that participants could immediately begin using QR codes to accept payments. - Interactive Demonstrations
Attendees witnessed live demonstrations of QR-based payment systems in action, showcasing the efficiency and simplicity of cashless transactions. - Partnership Commitments
Local officials expressed their support for integrating digital payments into public services and marketplaces, reinforcing the collaborative nature of the program.
The Role of NOCCI in Driving Digital Adoption
NOCCI’s participation in the Paleng-QR PH Program underscores its role as a catalyst for economic development and technological advancement in Negros Oriental. As a staunch advocate for innovation, NOCCI is working closely with BSP and DILG to:
- Promote Awareness: Educate local stakeholders on the benefits of digital payments and dispel misconceptions about cashless systems.
- Ensure Accessibility: Facilitate partnerships between payment providers and local communities to ensure seamless adoption.
- Strengthen MSMEs: Equip small businesses with the tools and knowledge to compete in a technology-driven economy.
According to NOCCI Executive Director John Jalandoni, the organization’s involvement in the initiative aligns with its broader mission to modernize the local business landscape.
“Our goal is to ensure that Negros Oriental remains at the forefront of economic innovation. The Paleng-QR PH Program is a stepping stone toward achieving a more connected and financially inclusive society.”
A Boost for Local Economies
The implementation of the Paleng-QR PH Program is expected to drive significant benefits for Negros Oriental’s economy. By introducing cashless systems to public markets and tricycles, the initiative aims to:
- Enhance Efficiency: Reduce reliance on physical cash, minimizing transaction times and associated risks.
- Improve Financial Inclusion: Provide unbanked and underbanked individuals access to digital financial services.
- Boost Transparency: Streamline financial records for businesses and local government units.
- Encourage Innovation: Foster a culture of digital adoption among entrepreneurs and service providers.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the Paleng-QR PH Program has garnered widespread support, challenges remain in ensuring its long-term success. Among these are the need for:
- Infrastructure Development: Expanding internet connectivity and digital infrastructure in rural areas.
- Sustained Awareness Campaigns: Continuously educating stakeholders on the advantages of cashless systems.
- Adaptability: Addressing concerns from users unfamiliar with digital technology.
NOCCI, alongside BSP and DILG, is committed to overcoming these hurdles through consistent engagement and collaboration.
A Transformative Initiative
The Paleng-QR PH Program is more than just a push for cashless transactions—it represents a paradigm shift toward a more inclusive, transparent, and technologically empowered society. With NOCCI leading the charge in Negros Oriental, the region is poised to become a model for digital transformation.
In his closing remarks, President Edward Du reiterated NOCCI’s dedication to this cause:
“The success of the Paleng-QR PH Program depends on the collective efforts of all stakeholders. Together, we can ensure that Negros Oriental thrives in the digital age.”
As the program continues to roll out, the partnership between NOCCI, BSP, and DILG serves as a testament to the power of collaboration in driving progress. For Negros Oriental, the future of financial innovation has never looked brighter
