RCBC vs. EastWest Bank – Best Rewards Program Comparison
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RCBC vs. EastWest Bank – Best Rewards Program Comparison
Introduction
Looking for a credit card that gives you the best rewards for your spending? 🤔 If you’re a first-time credit card user in the Philippines, choosing between RCBC and EastWest Bank can feel overwhelming. Both banks offer cards that give points, perks, and cashback, but which one gives better value for your money?
In this guide, we’ll break down how each bank’s rewards program works, compare their bonus points, cashback rates, and redemption options, and help you choose the best card for your lifestyle — whether you’re into shopping, dining, travel, or everyday spending.
How Rewards Credit Cards Work
Before we compare RCBC and EastWest, let’s quickly explain how credit card rewards work — especially if you’re new to this.
Every time you use your card, you earn points or cashback.
Points can be redeemed for shopping vouchers, air miles, annual fee waivers, or discounts.
Some cards give higher rewards for specific spending categories like groceries, fuel, or online shopping.
The goal is to maximize your benefits based on how and where you spend.
RCBC Rewards Program Overview
RCBC offers several credit cards with flexible rewards. Their program is best for people who want value per peso spent.
Key Features
Earn Rate: 1 point per ₱36 spent
Bonus Points: Up to 5x rewards on specific categories (travel, shopping, dining, etc.)
Redemption Options: Gift certificates, annual fee waivers, air miles, gadgets
Exclusive Perks: RCBC often partners with Lazada, Shopee, and restaurants for extra promos
Best RCBC Rewards Cards
Card Name
Best For
Rewards Rate
Annual Fee
RCBC Flex Gold
Online shopping & dining
Up to 2x points
₱2,500
RCBC Bankard Rewards Plus
Everyday spending
1 point = ₱36
₱3,000
RCBC Air Miles Platinum
Travel
1 mile = ₱45
₱5,000
EastWest Bank Rewards Program Overview
EastWest Bank is known for its generous cashback and rewards multipliers. It’s great if you want instant savings.
Key Features
Earn Rate: 1 point per ₱40 spent
High Multipliers: Some cards offer up to 8x rewards on selected categories
Cashback Option: EastWest cards often combine points + cashback flexibility
Lifestyle Benefits: Dining discounts, airport lounge access, and online promos
Best EastWest Rewards Cards
Card Name
Best For
Rewards Rate
Annual Fee
EastWest Everyday Titanium
Groceries & bills
Up to 5% cashback
₱2,000
EastWest Platinum Mastercard
Travel & shopping
Up to 8x rewards
₱3,500
EastWest Priority Visa
Luxury spenders
1 point = ₱40
₱6,000
RCBC vs. EastWest Bank – Rewards Comparison Table
Feature
RCBC
EastWest
Base Points Earn Rate
1 point / ₱36
1 point / ₱40
Maximum Multipliers
Up to 5x
Up to 8x
Cashback Options
Limited
Available on select cards
Best For
Frequent online shoppers & travelers
Cashback lovers & everyday spenders
Redemption Choices
Points → vouchers, miles, gadgets
Points → cashback, vouchers, miles
Verdict:
If you spend a lot online or on travel, RCBC gives better overall value because of bonus multipliers and air mile options.
If you want cashback for daily essentials like groceries and bills, EastWest is a stronger choice.
How to Choose the Right Rewards Card
When deciding between RCBC and EastWest, ask yourself:
Do you prefer cashback or points? → Go for EastWest if cashback matters more.
Do you travel often? → Pick RCBC for better air miles.
Do you shop online frequently? → RCBC offers stronger e-commerce deals.
Do you want simple savings? → EastWest’s cashback structure is easier to maximize.
Maximize Your Rewards – Tips for Beginners
1. Match Your Card to Your Spending Habits
If you spend ₱10,000/month on groceries, an EastWest Everyday Titanium card can give up to ₱500 cashback monthly.
2. Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator
Before choosing a card, check how much you’ll actually pay in fees, interest, and annual costs using our free tool: Credit Card Cost Calculator
3. Pay in Full Every Month
Avoid carrying a balance — interest charges can wipe out your rewards.
4. Take Advantage of Promos
Both RCBC and EastWest run seasonal promotions where you can earn extra points or cashback.
TL;DR – Quick Summary
RCBC = Better for travelers, online shoppers, and rewards maximizers
EastWest = Better for cashback lovers and everyday spenders
Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to compare total costs
Choose the card that fits your spending habits and lifestyle
FAQs
1. Which bank has better rewards, RCBC or EastWest?
RCBC is better for air miles and online shopping points, while EastWest is better for cashback and daily spending.
2. Do I need a high income to get these cards?
Not always. RCBC and EastWest have entry-level cards with minimum income requirements starting at ₱15,000/month.
3. Can I get both RCBC and EastWest cards?
Yes, many people use one card for cashback and another for travel rewards.
4. How do I redeem my rewards?
RCBC and EastWest let you redeem through online banking, mobile apps, or hotline requests.
5. Should I worry about annual fees?
Choose a card where your rewards or cashback offset the annual fee. If not, look for a no-annual-fee promo.
