Butuan City's Big Leap: Digital Payments in Markets and Tricycles!

COURTESY: https://www.pia.gov.ph

Hey there, Butuanons! Exciting news on the horizon! Our beloved Butuan City has taken a revolutionary step by launching the Paleng-QR Ph Plus on May 31 at Mayor Salvador L. Calo Supermarket, Langihan Road. This move is set to change the way we handle transactions, making our lives a whole lot easier and safer.

So, what’s the buzz all about? Well, Paleng-QR Ph is a standardized QR code that lets us pay for stuff without cash. Yep, you read that right! Developed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), this system promotes cashless payments in public markets and tricycle hubs through mobile apps. Say hello to hassle-free shopping and commuting!

You might be wondering, “How does this affect our local vendors and tricycle drivers?” Great question! During the launch, thirteen private and government financial institutions were on hand to help market vendors, Tricycle Operators, and Drivers’ Association (TODA) members set up their accounts. This means that our local heroes can now accept payments digitally, speeding up transactions and making them more secure.

Judith G. Dolot, the regional director of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Mindanao Regional Office, shared some impressive stats: “Butuan City is the first in Caraga Region and the fourth in the country to launch Paleng-QR Ph Plus. We've got 252 vendors in Taboan Public Market and 545 in Mayor Salvador L. Calo Supermarket already on board.” That's almost 60% and 64% of vendors respectively!

Mayor Ronnie Vicente C. Lagnada, through City Councilor Cromwell P. Nortega, highlighted the bigger picture: “This initiative is a significant step towards transforming Butuan into a sustainable and smart eco-city.” Not only does this reduce counterfeit bank notes, but it also simplifies transactions. Who wouldn’t want that?

But wait, there’s more! City Councilor Cherry May G. Busa has called on the City Economic Development Department and other agencies to roll out digital literacy training. This means our market vendors and transport groups will get the skills they need to navigate this new digital world and avoid scams. It’s like getting a digital superpower!

Let’s hear it from the folks who are already benefiting. Jonathan Julius Roy Tizon, president of the Association of Fish Vendors in Langihan Public Market, encouraged his fellow vendors to embrace this new system. According to him, “70% of fish vendors already have their QR codes.” How awesome is that?

Tizon also pointed out the safety benefits. No more carrying cash means less risk of theft and robbery. So, next time you're at the market, just whip out your phone and scan away. Easy peasy!

So, there you have it, Butuanons! Our city is stepping into the future with Paleng-QR Ph Plus, making life more convenient and secure for everyone. Whether you're a vendor, a tricycle driver, or just someone who loves shopping and commuting, this new system is sure to make things smoother.

Let’s embrace this change and support our city’s journey towards becoming a smart eco-city. Ready to go cashless? Let’s do this, Butuan!