Smart & PayJoy Boost Mobile Credit Access in the Philippines
In a significant move for the Philippine telecommunications industry, Smart Communications, Inc., the wireless subsidiary of PLDT Inc., has entered a strategic partnership with PayJoy, a US-based Public Benefit Corporation.
The collaboration aims to unlock smartphone financing for millions of underserved Filipino consumers, particularly those new to credit, by introducing more accessible and innovative payment options.
Forecasts suggest that the number of smartphone users in the Philippines will exceed 80 million within four years, driven by increasing demand for digital connectivity, education and mobile productivity tools.
By design, the alliance between Smart and PayJoy supports the surge by enabling more consumers to upgrade to modern smartphones through PayJoy’s AI-driven underwriting and proprietary phone security technology.
Breaking down barriers to smartphone ownership
Unlike traditional credit systems, the PayJoy model does not rely on credit cards or formal financial histories.
Instead, Filipino consumers can now purchase mid to high-end smartphones simply by presenting a valid ID and a phone number.
Payments are made weekly over four-, six- or nine-month periods, providing flexible financing options to suit various income levels.
Jacqueline Bocalan, Department Head and VP at Smart, explained: "This collaboration aims to provide Filipino consumers, particularly those with limited budgets and no access to traditional credit, the opportunity to purchase mid to high-end smartphones through innovative financing solutions that will enable them to upgrade their means of communication and easier access to information."
Empowering the digitally underserved
Smart’s mission to bridge the digital divide aligns with PayJoy’s global commitment to responsible financing for emerging markets. Currently, PayJoy supports more than 66 million low-income consumers in the Philippines alone, helping them build credit and gain access to essential digital tools for work, education and social connection.
“Our partnership with PayJoy aligns with our commitment to serve more Filipinos through innovative solutions.
"By providing accessible financing options for smartphones, we are helping bridge the digital divide and ensuring that everyone can benefit from our extensive 4G/LTE and 5G network, which allows them to access their essential productivity, entertainment, gaming and other favourite apps on the go.
"We also encourage our customers to upgrade from 3G to LTE or 5G so that they can enjoy a better experience on their Smart-powered mobile phones.”
Unlocking a path to connectivity and credit
PayJoy leverages a robust blend of artificial intelligence and mobile technology to evaluate and secure loans for first-time borrowers.
The system ensures that financing remains both responsible and sustainable.
Rene Payan, Country Manager at PayJoy, highlighted the goal: “Our mission is to unlock financial freedom for the next billion people worldwide. By partnering with Smart, we are enabling more Filipinos to access the technology they need to stay connected and improve their lives.”
Expanding network access and value-added offers
Smart’s mobile services already cover approximately 97% of the Philippine population, delivering both 4G/LTE and 5G connectivity that supports a fast-growing digital economy.
The extensive reach ensures that users who upgrade their smartphones through the PayJoy programme benefit from enhanced speed, reliability and access to a broader ecosystem of digital services.
Supporting the national development agenda
The partnership aligns with PLDT’s broader commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, notably SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.
By driving financial inclusion and supporting digital access, the collaboration between Smart and PayJoy contributes directly to building resilient infrastructure and fostering innovation in underserved communities.
In uniting telecommunications and fintech expertise, Smart and PayJoy are setting a new standard for inclusive digital transformation, where connectivity, credit and opportunity go hand in hand.
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