By Mary Therese D. Ancheta and Dae Abigael V. Tabilos
BATAC CITY, Ilocos Norte — The City Government of Batac officially launched the Paleng-QR Ph Plus Program on October 28 at the Batac Public Market in Barangay Bil-loca.
The initiative, implemented in partnership with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), aims to promote digital payments and financial inclusion in local markets and transport sectors, ensuring safer and faster transactions for vendors, drivers, and consumers.
Digital inclusion
The launch brought together city and provincial officials, representatives from national agencies such as the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), as well as local organizations and financial service providers.
Batac City Mayor Mark Christian Chua emphasized that the program aligns with the city’s goal of modernizing its economy and helping vendors adapt to digital change.
“The market is the heart of our local economy. It’s only right that we enhance our facilities and help vendors earn more through digitalization,” Chua said.
He also announced that the city has allocated part of its 2026 Development Fund for market upgrades, including improved facilities, online payment systems, and wider Wi-Fi access, recognizing the Batac Public Market as a key economic hub.
Representing BSP regional director, lawyer Noel Malimban, John Erickson F. Bueno, officer-in-charge of the BSP Batac Branch, highlighted the program’s role in the national drive for a “digital, cash-light, and financially inclusive Philippines.”
“Through this program, we empower every sector—from market vendors to tricycle drivers and consumers—by offering fast, safe, and convenient payment options. It’s not just a payment system; it’s a step toward empowerment, efficiency, and opportunity,” Bueno said.
The BSP representative also commended the City Government of Batac for passing an ordinance institutionalizing the program, noting it as a model for local innovation and inclusive growth in Northern Luzon.
Local empowerment
Meanwhile, DILG representative Rodel Hilario, speaking on behalf of provincial director, lawyer Gerald Gallardo, praised Batac’s leadership for pioneering digital transformation at the local level.
“This milestone is something other local government units should adopt and replicate. Batac is setting the standard for a forward-thinking, smart city,” Hilario said.
He added that Batac joins over 222 local government units across the Philippines that have adopted the Paleng-QR Ph Plus Program, marking another step toward nationwide digital governance.
Community voices
For many residents—especially market vendors and transport drivers—the new payment system has already made a difference.
Jim Talioaga, a tricycle driver, said the QR system made transactions easier.
“Even if passengers don’t have cash, they can just scan and pay. Our transactions are faster now,” he shared.
Similarly, Celine Flores, a banana vendor at the Batac Public Market, said the system simplified her business operations.
“Most of my customers prefer [cashless transactions]. It’s hassle-free—no need to look for change. Just scan and pay,” she said.
Bridging generations
Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos commended Batac City’s proactive digitalization efforts and urged patience and understanding for older residents still adjusting to new technologies.
“Let’s be patient with our elders who are still learning how to use QR codes. Eventually, we’ll all get the hang of it. We can still keep up with the times,” Araneta-Marcos said.
She also praised the city’s collaboration with national agencies, emphasizing that innovation and compassion must go hand in hand to make Batac a model of inclusive progress.
The Paleng-QR Ph Plus Program represents a significant milestone in Batac City’s pursuit of sustainable and inclusive growth.
By promoting digital payments, the city ensures transparency and convenience while strengthening financial literacy and resilience among citizens.
Through initiatives like this, Batac proves that progress is strongest when shared—empowering every Batacqueño to adapt, connect, and thrive in the digital era. (CCMT/MTDA/DAVT, PIA Ilocos Norte)
