Metrobank vs. Security Bank – Best Credit Card for Cashback in the Philippines
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Metrobank vs. Security Bank – Best Credit Card for Cashback in the Philippines
Looking for the best cashback credit card in the Philippines? If you’re a first-time credit card user, choosing between Metrobank and Security Bank can feel overwhelming. Both banks offer strong cashback features, but they cater to different needs and lifestyles.
In this guide, we’ll compare their cashback cards, benefits, requirements, and approval processes — so you can confidently decide which one works best for you.
What Is a Credit Card and How Cashback Works
Before diving into the comparison, let’s quickly clarify what cashback really means.
A credit card lets you make purchases now and pay later.
A cashback card rewards you by returning a percentage of your spending as cash or bill credits.
Example: If your cashback rate is 5% and you spend ₱10,000, you get ₱500 back — either as a direct rebate or deducted from your balance.
For beginners, cashback cards are a smart way to save money while building your credit history.
Metrobank Cashback Credit Cards
Metrobank offers a range of credit cards, but for cashback lovers, the most notable are:
1. Metrobank Cashback Visa
Cashback Rate: Up to 5% on essential categories like dining, groceries, and fuel
Annual Fee: Waived for the first year (promos often available)
Income Requirement: Around ₱21,000 per month (₱250,000 yearly)
Best For: Those who regularly spend on essentials and want maximum rebates
2. Metrobank M Free Mastercard
Annual Fee:No annual fee for life
Cashback/Rewards: Earns points that can be converted into rebates
Best For: First-time credit card holders who want a no-maintenance card
Metrobank Cashback Card Advantages
✅ High cashback rate on essentials ✅ Wide merchant acceptance ✅ First-year fee waivers and promo offers
Metrobank Cashback Card Disadvantages
❌ Higher income requirements for some cards ❌ Stricter approval process for first-time applicants
Security Bank Cashback Credit Cards
Security Bank also offers cashback credit cards designed for beginners and everyday spenders.
1. Security Bank Complete Cashback Mastercard
Cashback Rate: Up to 5% on essentials like groceries, fuel, dining, and utilities
Annual Cashback Limit: Up to ₱12,000 per year
Annual Fee: Waived for the first year
Income Requirement: Around ₱15,000 per month
Best For: Budget-conscious cardholders who want consistent cashback savings
2. Security Bank Fast Track Program (Secured Credit Card)
For beginners or those with no credit history, Security Bank’s Fast Track Program is one of the easiest ways to get approved.
Open a deposit account (e.g., ₱15,000–₱20,000 minimum)
Get a secured credit card with a credit limit equal to 80% of your deposit
Approval within 3–5 business days
First-year annual fee waived
Security Bank Cashback Card Advantages
✅ Easier approval, especially for first-time users ✅ Lower income requirements ✅ Secured credit option for guaranteed approval
Security Bank Cashback Card Disadvantages
❌ Requires a deposit for secured cards ❌ Cashback earnings capped at ₱12,000 yearly
Metrobank vs. Security Bank: Cashback Comparison Table
Feature
Metrobank Cashback Cards
Security Bank Cashback Cards
Max Cashback Rate
Up to 5%
Up to 5%
Annual Cashback Limit
Unlimited for most cards
Up to ₱12,000 per year
Approval Difficulty
Moderate to strict
Easier, especially with secured option
Annual Fee
Often waived first year
Waived first year; lower fees overall
Income Requirement
~₱21,000/month
~₱15,000/month
Best For
Higher spenders wanting bigger rebates
Beginners wanting easier approval
Which Cashback Credit Card Should You Choose?
Choose Metrobank Cashback Cards if:
You have a higher monthly income
You want unlimited cashback potential
You value premium perks and exclusive offers
Choose Security Bank Cashback Cards if:
You want easier approval, especially as a first-timer
You prefer a lower monthly income requirement
You want fast approval through the secured credit card program
Pro Tip: If you’re new to credit cards, Security Bank’s Fast Track option is a great starting point. Once you build a good credit score, you can later upgrade to a Metrobank card for higher cashback potential.
Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator Before Applying
Before deciding, calculate your monthly payment estimates and interest costs if you don’t pay in full.
This helps you plan your budget and avoid hidden surprises.
TL;DR — Quick Summary
Metrobank = Best for high spenders who want unlimited cashback and premium perks.
Security Bank = Best for first-timers who need easier approval and faster processing.
Always use the Credit Card Cost Calculator before applying to check affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which bank gives higher cashback, Metrobank or Security Bank? Both offer up to 5% cashback, but Metrobank allows unlimited earnings, while Security Bank caps it at ₱12,000 per year.
2. Is it easier to get approved with Security Bank? Yes. Their Fast Track secured credit card program offers near-guaranteed approval, perfect for first-time applicants.
3. Do I need a high income to qualify for Metrobank cashback cards? Metrobank generally requires at least ₱21,000 per month, while Security Bank starts around ₱15,000 per month.
4. Are annual fees waived for both banks? Yes. Most Metrobank and Security Bank cashback cards waive annual fees for the first year. Some promos even offer lifetime free annual fees.
5. Which bank is better for beginners? Security Bank is better for beginners due to its lower income requirement and secured credit card approval program.
