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The BDO American Express Platinum Credit Card is a premium credit card offering a variety of benefits focused on enhancing the lifestyle and travel experiences of its holders. It provides a platform of enriched features catering to different aspects of a cardholder’s needs and preferences.

One of the primary perks of this card is its enriching travel and lifestyle benefits, which put various conveniences and luxuries at the cardholder’s fingertips​. These benefits extend across a spectrum of services and rewards programs. The Membership Rewards® Program, for instance, entitles members to 1 Membership Rewards® Point for every US$1 or PHP45 spent. These points, which do not expire, can be redeemed for air miles, thus accelerating the journey to new destinations​.

Moreover, the card opens up an avenue of financial flexibility with no pre-set spending limit, billed in US dollars, allowing a level of financial freedom. This feature is particularly handy as it adapts to the cardholder’s purchase, payment, and credit history, providing a flexible spending capacity. Additionally, all purchases, whether made locally or overseas, are billed in US dollars, and the card operates on a full payment model every month, ensuring that the cardholder has complete control over their spending​.

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BDO American Express Platinum Card Benefits

The BDO American Express Platinum Credit Card encapsulates a blend of travel, lifestyle, and financial benefits, tailored to cater to the discerning needs and preferences of its cardholders. With a focus on providing exceptional value and convenience, this card unfolds a realm of privileges and rewards, ensuring a enriching experience whether you’re traversing the globe, managing your finances, or simply enjoying the fine things in life. Below are some notable benefits that come with this card:

Membership Rewards Program

One benefit of this card is the Membership Rewards® Program, which entitles cardholders to 1 Membership Rewards® Point for every US$1 spent.  The accumulation of these points over time can translate into a myriad of rewards tailored to individual tastes. These rewards range from free flights or hotel stays to shopping vouchers and the latest gadgets. The flexibility and variety in redemption options make this program a lucrative benefit for cardholders​.

Financial Flexibility

The absence of a pre-set spending limit, billed in US dollars, offers cardholders a degree of financial flexibility uncommon in many credit cards. This feature adapts to the cardholder’s purchase, payment, and credit history, facilitating a flexible spending capacity. Moreover, the full payment model every month encourages responsible financial management and enables cardholders to have complete control over their spending​​.

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Access to airport lounges

The card gives members unlimited free access to more than 1,300 airport lounges across the world, elevating their travel experiences to a new level of comfort and elegance.  This feature not only makes the trip more enjoyable, but it also offers cardholders a peaceful respite from the hectic airport throng, allowing them to unwind or catch up on work before their flights. 

Travel accident and delay coverage that is comprehensive

Travel with peace of mind knowing that you have a safety net with the card’s comprehensive Travel Accident and Inconvenience Insurance. This benefit provides up to US$2M in complimentary medical treatment and up to US$500,000 for travel accident and inconvenience protection when the entire fare is charged to the card. It’s a significant perk for frequent travelers, ensuring a level of security during their trips​.

Privileges with Airlines and Hotels

Cardholders have the pleasure of enjoying discounted airfare with partner airlines and exclusive offers at a small number of properties throughout the world. This benefit is intended to improve the travel and lodging experiences of cardholders, offering special discounts on flights with Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways as well as receiving benefits with an average total value of US$550, including daily breakfast for two, 4 PM late check-out, and a US$100 experience credit at over 1,300 properties worldwide. 

Car Rental Benefits

Partnering with renowned car rental services like Hertz and Avis, the card offers special benefits such as discounts, upgrades, and priority service. This perk is especially beneficial for those who frequently rent cars during their travels, making the experience more enjoyable and cost-effective. It’s a convenience that adds to the holistic travel benefits provided by the card​.

Prerequisites to Obtain the BDO American Express Platinum Card

  • Age and Citizenship:
      • The primary applicant must be between 21 and 60 years old, while supplementary cardholders must be at least 13 years old.
      • Applicants can be Filipino citizens or foreigners residing in the Philippines​.
  • Income Requirements:
      • A minimum Gross Fixed Monthly Income of ₱139,000 is required.
      • Additionally, an annual income of over ₱1,800,000 is necessary to apply for the card​.
  • Documentation:
    • Proof of Identification:
      • Filipino applicants: Any valid photo-bearing Government-issued ID (e.g., Passport, Driver’s License, SSS ID, PhilSys ID) (front and back).
      • Foreign applicants: Copy of Employment Contract or Certificate of Employment.
    • Proof of Income:
      • Employed Applicants: Photocopy of the latest Income Tax Return (ITR) duly stamped as received by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) or BIR Form 2316 signed by the employer’s authorized representative. Additionally, any of the following documents can be provided: Latest full month’s payslip/s; Original Certificate of Employment indicating status, service tenure, and compensation breakdown or if with existing credit cards, a copy of your credit card’s most recent two (2)-month statement that covers at least one (1) year of transactions.
  • Annual Membership Fee and Spending:
    • There’s an annual fee of ₱5,000; however, this fee can be waived if the cardholder spends at least ₱600,000 per year​.

These criteria and requirements ensure that applicants have the financial capacity and necessary documentation to manage a premium credit card like the BDO American Express Platinum Credit Card.

About BDO Unibank Financial Institution

BDO Unibank provides a comprehensive array of banking and financial services encompassing retail banking, commercial banking, corporate banking, and investment banking. The bank prides itself on its expansive distribution network, boasting over 1,600 operating branches and more than 4,600 ATMs nationwide. Additionally, BDO has established a global footprint with 16 international offices spread across Asia, Europe, North America, and the Middle East, including full-service branches in Hong Kong and Singapore​.

The bank’s growth strategy has been marked by both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, positioning it for enhanced balance sheet strength and continuing market penetration. As of mid-2023, BDO stands as the country’s leading bank, not only in terms of resources but also in customer loans, deposits, assets under management, and capital. The extensive branch and ATM network nationwide further underline its dominant position in the Philippine banking landscape​​.

Who is the BDO American Express Platinum Card for?

The BDO American Express Platinum Credit Card is tailored for affluent individuals who seek to blend luxury, convenience, and financial flexibility in their day-to-day transactions and travel experiences. Ideal for frequent travelers, the card offers extensive airport lounge access, premium travel insurance, and exclusive airline and hotel privileges. Additionally, the card caters to individuals with a high-income bracket, evident from the stringent income requirements for eligibility. With benefits like a robust Membership Rewards Program and financial management features, it’s well-suited for individuals who value premium services, global acceptance, and a card that complements their lifestyle and financial management needs.

How to Apply for the BDO American Express Platinum Card

To apply for the BDO American Express Platinum Credit Card, follow these steps:

  • Check Eligibility:

Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria: between the ages of 21 and 70, have a minimum annual income of PHP 1,800,000, and reside in the Philippines.

  • Prepare Necessary Documents:

Gather your identification and income proof documents as per the requirements mentioned earlier in the “prerequisites” section.

  • Online Application:

Visit the official application page and complete the online application form. You’ll need to provide personal, employment, and financial information, and agree to the terms and conditions before submitting your application​​.

  • Branch Application:

Alternatively, you could visit a BDO branch nearest to you and apply in person. It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm the availability of the American Express Platinum Credit Card application service at the branch.

  • Application Review:

Once submitted, BDO will review your application, which may include a credit check and verification of the information provided.

  • Approval and Card Issuance:

Upon approval, BDO will issue your American Express Platinum Credit Card which will be sent to your registered mailing address.

  • Activate Your Card:

Follow the instructions provided with your card to activate it. This would typically involve calling a specified number or activating it online through BDO’s official website or mobile app​.

Keep in mind that the approval of your application is at the discretion of BDO Unibank, and it’s advisable to have all your documentation and information accurate and up-to-date to ensure a smooth application process.

Positives and Negatives of the BDO American Express Platinum Card

PROS

  • Comprehensive travel and lifestyle benefits including access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, special rates with partner airlines, and exclusive benefits at select properties worldwide
  • Membership Rewards Program offering 1 point for every US$1 or PHP45 spent, with no expiration on points
  • Financial flexibility with no pre-set spending limit and full payment model every month
  • Comprehensive Travel Accident and Inconvenience Insurance coverage up to US$2M for medical treatment and up to US$500,000 for travel accident and inconvenience protection
  • Exclusive car rental benefits with Hertz and Avis
  • Exclusive access to World Class Concierge Services
  • Hassle-free bill payments and a ‘BUY NOW, PAY LATER’ feature facilitating easier management of finances
  • Robust mobile banking app for easy account management and card activation

CONS

  • High minimum income requirement of PHP 1,800,000 per annum
  • Annual membership fee of PHP 5,000 (waived if spending reaches PHP 600,000 per year)
  • Lack of a revolving credit feature due to the full payment model
  • Potentially high foreign currency exchange rates and foreign transaction fees
  • Not as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard globally
  • May not be ideal for individuals who don’t travel frequently or don’t meet the high-income requirement

BDO American Express Platinum Card Fees and Tariffs

The main costs associated with the BDO American Express Platinum Credit Card include:

  • Annual Membership Fee: PHP 5000 (Waived if annual spending exceeds PHP 600,000)
  • Installment Processing Fee: A 5% processing fee or PHP 300, whichever is greater, is charged for installment transactions​.
  • Monthly Interest Rate: 3% (Retail and Cash Advance)
  • Cash Advance Fee: PHP 200
  • Late Payment Charge: PHP 850

For a better understanding of all the fees and charges you can visit BDO’s Official Webpage here.

BDO American Express Platinum Card Customer Service

For assistance regarding the BDO American Express Platinum Credit Card, you can reach out through the following channels:

  1. Official Website:
  2. Phone:
    • BDO Customer Contact Center: Metro Manila: 8631-8000, Domestic Toll-Free Nos: 1800-10-631-8000 (PLDT)​​
    • Platinum Card Services: (+632) 8840-7800, International Toll-Free: (IAC)+800-8-8407400​​
  3. Email:

These channels should provide a comprehensive means of obtaining assistance or more information regarding the BDO American Express Platinum Credit Card.