A Helpful Guide on Remittances and How To Choose the Right Remittance Center

Philippine peso and other bank notes that can be sent through a remittance center

Introduction 

Many Filipinos find better work opportunities in faraway places to give their families a chance to have a more comfortable life. Some travel to distant cities, while others even go abroad. This movement is driven by the pursuit of a brighter future and serves as a testament to the lengths individuals are willing to go to provide for their loved ones.

The decision to work far from home should not be taken lightly because it always involves leaving behind enduring separation from family and friends and adapting to new cultures and environments. However, the reward of potentially earning a higher income can make this sacrifice worthwhile.

The challenge for people who choose to work in different parts of the country or even abroad is finding a way to send their hard-earned cash back to their hometown. For this reason, they need to visit remittance centers that can transfer money to different parts of the Philippines to ensure their families and loved ones have enough funds to support themselves.

Cebuana Lhuillier has always been among the most trusted money remittance centers in the Philippines. Check out this article today to learn what remittance centers are and how to find the right one.

The Filipinos’ Need for Money Remittance Services 

For many Filipino families, remittance services ensure a consistent flow of financial support. The money is needed to cover daily expenses, pay for education, and address emergency healthcare needs.

Finding an establishment that can help you send money back home is easy if you work locally. Cebuana Lhuillier has thousands of branches nationwide, so you can simply visit one near you.

But don’t fret if you work abroad because we’re still ready to help you. We have partnered with numerous international remittance centers in other countries that can help you send funds back to the Philippines. With their services, you can ensure that your loved ones will receive the money you earn.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Reliable Remittance Center in the Philippines 

Remittance centers provide an avenue for sending and receiving money in different parts of the Philippines. Finding the right one based on your preferences and needs is important. Here are a few factors to consider:

Number of Branches 

When choosing a remittance center, finding one with a widespread network and numerous branches in different parts of the country is crucial. This is particularly important in terms of accessibility for both senders and recipients. Suppose the remittance center has many physical locations nationwide. In that case, you and your loved one can find a nearby branch where you can complete the transaction, whether you are sending or claiming money.

Customer Service 

Another essential factor to consider is customer service. It will be beneficial if the remittance center you choose has well-trained staff members who can assist you in completing the transaction, especially if you are a first-timer. If you have possible complaints or questions about their services, they should be able to properly and quickly address them.

International Remittance Coverage 

A global presence is important, especially if you and your loved ones are oceans apart. Be sure to work with a remittance center that allows international money transfers at an affordable rate. Before you choose a remittance center, be sure to conduct proper research to understand how much you should be paying for the services.

Secure Money Transfer Processes 

Of course, you want your money to go to its intended recipient, so it’s crucial to find a channel that you know is secure and safe. When choosing a remittance center, prioritizing secure money transfer processes is paramount to safeguard both your financial assets and personal information.

Convenient Services 

Convenience is always a critical factor when selecting a remittance center. This is why finding a remittance center that facilitates simple transactions and fast services at an affordable rate is essential. If possible, you can also choose an establishment offering other money-related services, such as bills payment, pawning, and micro savings, among others.

Transfer Speed 

You don’t know when your loved ones will need money in an emergency. During such situations, it would be helpful if your money remittance partner offered high-speed services. International transfers can take a week, depending on certain circumstances, but it would be highly beneficial if the facility could expedite the process in just a few business days.

Essential Tips for Sending Money Safely and Quickly 

When you are far away from home – whether in an urban city in the country or another nation altogether – you must exercise precautions as you send your hard-earned money back home. Here are a few tips to follow if you plan to use the services of a money remittance services provider to send money to the Philippines:

Double-Check Information 

When sending money, double-check the information written on the documents you have to fill out. This is done to mitigate the risk of errors and ensure the seamless execution of an accurate transaction.

As you double-check crucial information, review both recipient details and transaction specifics meticulously. Verify the recipient’s information, including their full name and contact details, to prevent delayed claims, unintended transfers, and other related problems.

Equally important is checking transaction details to confirm the accuracy of the sent amount and designated currency. When sending through Cebuana Lhuillier and their international partners, verify the control number you’ll be sending to the intended recipient.

Bring Necessary Documents 

Bringing the necessary documents is another essential aspect of safely sending your money. When engaging in financial transactions, especially through remittance centers, ensuring you have the required identification documents is crucial for a secure and efficient process.

Some of the most important documents to bring are government-issued IDs that help verify your identity. Be sure to do your research to determine if the remittance center you’re going to requires other papers when sending money.

Beware of Transfer Scams 

Transfer scams are dangerous, especially for people who wish to send their hard-earned money back to their loved ones. These days, fraudsters have become increasingly sophisticated in their tactics, so it’s crucial for you to remain vigilant and informed about their scamming strategies.

One common tactic is unsolicited communication. Do not entertain strangers talking to you or offering help when sending money unless you know they are among the establishment’s staff members. This is an effective way to fend off these scammers and ensure the safety of your money.

Visit One of the Most Trusted Remittance Centers in the Philippines Today! 

Cebuana Lhuillier is your go-to remittance center in the Philippines. Visit any of our branches to send or receive money anywhere in the country. We have friendly staff members who are well-trained to assist you if you need help with our services.

If you are abroad and wish to send money back to the Philippines, you don’t have to worry. We have trusted international partners in different countries and territories. You can visit any of them to send money.

FAQs About Remittance Centers in the Philippines 

What Is the Purpose of Remittance Centers? 

Remittance centers serve as intermediaries for transferring money from one location to another. Their primary purpose is to facilitate the efficient and secure transfer of funds from individuals working in a faraway place. With their services, senders can ensure their families and loved ones can safely receive their hard-earned cash.

What Is the Difference Between Bank Transfer and Remittance? 

Bank transfers are another way to send money to another person. They are done electronically, eliminating the need to visit a physical location. They are marketed as a convenient option for transferring funds, but they have a few drawbacks, too, so remittance centers remain popular and relevant.

One of their limitations is accessibility. Both partners need to have a bank account to facilitate a proper money transfer, which can pose a problem in many parts of the Philippines, where many people remain unbanked.

What Are the Different Types of Remittances? 

Remittance services can be categorized into two main types:

  • Local – It is a local remittance if both the sender and the receiver are in the same country. Local remittance transactions are fast and safe if done through a reliable provider like Cebuana Lhuillier.
  • International – International remittances refer to fund transfers in which the sender and receiver are in different countries. Transactions are often completed in several banking days because certain factors (like exchange rates and international remittance policies) need to be considered.

Conclusion 

Remittances are more than just monetary transactions. For many Filipinos, remittances represent the enduring connection between them and the family they left back home to find better work opportunities.

Cebuana Lhuillier serves as a bridge for people separated by geographical distance but joined by a common need for financial services. If you are planning to send or receive money in any part of the country, just visit our branches and let our staff members assist you. For more information, feel free to contact our team.

CORPORATE AGENT PARTNERS

  • ACTION.ABLE, INC.
  • ALL ACCESS GATEWAY INC.
  • ANTRECCO (AGUSAN DEL NORTE TEACHERS, RETIREES, EMPLOYEES & COMMUNITY COOPERATIVE)
  • ACM VIP
  • ALL CASH
  • AGRILIFE/ AGRIVET
  • ASENSO PINOY STORE, INC. (EASY DAY SHOP)
  • AVICOM ENTERPRISES
  • AYALA ALABANG VILLAGE ASSOCIATION
  • BAUG CARP MULTI PURPOSE COOPERATIVE
  • BAGUIO BENGUET COOP
  • CARD BANK INC
  • CARD MRI RIZAL BANK INC
  • CARD SME BANK
  • CARITAS BANCO NG MASA, INC.
  • CEBU PEOPLE’S MULTIPURPOSE COOPERATIVE
  • CIS BAYAD CENTER, INC
  • COOPERATIVE BANK OF BOHOL, INC
  • COUNTRY BUILDERS BANK
  • CREDENCE FINANCING, INC.
  • CURAMED PHARMACY
  • DALTON PAWNSHOP AND JEWELRY INC.
  • DANIELA PAWNSHOP
  • DIRECT AGENT 5 (DA 5)
  • DEVELOPMENT BANK OF THE PHILS.
  • EXPRESSPAY INC.
  • EVRIJEM FOREIGN EXCHANGE AND MONEY REMITTANCE
  • FILHAI MULTI PURPOSE COOPERATIVE
  • GLOBAL PINOY REMITTANCE AND SERVICES (GPRS)
  • GEMARY PAWNSHOP AND JEWELRY (CORP.)

OVER 600 BILLER PARTNERS NATIONWIDE

  • 123 FINANCE CORPORATION
  • 123 LENDING CORPORATION
  • 2C2P
  • 8AMC (VIA ECPAY)
  • ABEJO WATERS CORP.
  • ABRA
  • ACOM CONSUMER FINANCE CORPORATION
  • ACTIVE REALTY & DEVELOPMENT CORP.
  • ADA MANUFACTURING CORPORATION (VIA ECPAY)
  • AEON CREDIT SERVICE
  • AETERNITAS CHAPELS AND COLUMBARIUM (VIA ECPAY)
  • AFC SME FINANCE INC
  • AFTERWEST MICROLOANS INC
  • AGODA – DRAGONPAY
  • AGRIBANK
  • AGRO-INDUSTRIAL FOUNDATION COLLEGE OF THE PHILS.
  • AGUSAN DEL NORTE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC.
  • AIR YOU GO TRAVELS PHILIPPINES CO.
  • AKLAN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC.
  • ALAMINOS CITY WATER DISTRICT (VIA ECPAY)
  • ALLIANZ PNB LIFE INSURANCE INC.
  • ALPHA FUND SAVINGS & CREDIT COOPERATIVE (VIA ECPAY)
  • AMADEO WATER DISTRICT (VIA ECPAY)
  • AMYA POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE, INC. AND FINANCING CORPORATION (LENDPINOY)
  • ANGAT WATER DISTRICT (VIA ECPAY)
  • ANGELES ELECTRIC COMPANY ANGELICUM SCHOOL , INC. ILOILO CITY (VIA ECPAY)
  • ANJELMAN REAL ESTATE LEASING
  • ANTIQUE ELECTRIC COOP, INC ANTRECCO (BILLS PAYMENT)

OVER 600 BILLER PARTNERS NATIONWIDE

  • 123 FINANCE CORPORATION
  • 123 LENDING CORPORATION
  • 2C2P
  • 8AMC (VIA ECPAY)
  • ABEJO WATERS CORP.
  • ABRA
  • ACOM CONSUMER FINANCE CORPORATION
  • ACTIVE REALTY & DEVELOPMENT CORP.
  • ADA MANUFACTURING CORPORATION (VIA ECPAY)
  • CREDIT SERVICE
  • AETERNITAS CHAPELS AND COLUMBARIUM (via ECPAY)
  • AFC SME FINANCE INC
  • AFTERWEST MICROLOANS INC
  • AGODA – DRAGONPAY
  • AGRIBANK
  • AGRO-INDUSTRIAL FOUNDATION COLLEGE OF THE PHILS.
  • AGUSAN DEL NORTE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC.
  • AIR YOU GO TRAVELS PHILIPPINES CO.
  • AKLAN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC.
  • ALAMINOS CITY WATER DISTRICT (via ECPAY)
  • CREDENCE FINANCING, INC.
  • CURAMED PHARMACY
  • DALTON PAWNSHOP AND JEWELRY INC.
  • DANIELA PAWNSHOP
  • DIRECT AGENT 5 (DA 5)
  • DEVELOPMENT BANK OF THE PHILS.
  • EXPRESSPAY INC.
  • EVRIJEM FOREIGN EXCHANGE AND MONEY REMITTANCE
  • FILHAI MULTI PURPOSE COOPERATIVE
  • GLOBAL PINOY REMITTANCE AND SERVICES (GPRS)
  • GEMARY PAWNSHOP AND JEWELRY (CORP.)

List of Accepted Government/ Valid IDs

  • Passport
  • Driver’s License
  • Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID
  • National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
  • Police Clearance
  • Postal ID
  • Voter’s ID
  • Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) ID
  • Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) e-Card
  • Social Security System (SSS) ID
  • Senior Citizen’s ID
  • Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) ID
  • OFW ID
  • Seaman’s Book
  • Alien Certification of Registration (ACR)
  • Barangay Certificate or ID (with picture and signature)
  • Birth Certificate (applicable to minors only)
  • Firearm License
  • Immigrant Certificate of Registration
  • Marriage License
  • National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons
  • New TIN ID
  • OWWA ID
  • Student ID
  • Alien Certification of Registration (ACR) / Immigrant Certificate of Registration
  • Government Office or Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCC) ID (e.g. AFP ID, HDMF (Pag-ibig Fund) ID, etc.
  • Certification from the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP)
  • Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Certification
  • Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID (IBP)
  • Company IDs issued by private entities or institutions registered with or supervised or regulated either by the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas), SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) or IC (Insurance Commission)

IDs Accepted

As required by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), clients who engage in a financial transaction with covered institutions for the first time shall be required to present the original and submit a clear copy of at least ONE (1) valid photo-bearing identification document issued by an official authority. For our clients’ convenience, Cebuana no longer requires submission of the photocopied ID. IDs are captured using a webcam in all branches. Clients are also required to submit an updated photo and other relevant information whenever the need for it arises.

Forms of identification accepted are the following;

Pawn Accepted IDs
1. Passport
2. Driver’s License
3. Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID
4. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
5. Police Clearance
6. Postal ID
7. Voter’s ID
8. Philippine Identification (PhilID) card
9. Social Security System (SSS) Card / Unified Multi-Purpose ID (UMID)
10. Barangay Certification
11. Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) e-Card
12. Senior Citizen Card
13. Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) ID
14. OFW ID
15. Seaman’s Book
16. Alien Certification of Registration/Immigrant Certificate of Registration (for foreigners)
17. Government Office and GOCC ID, e.g., Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP ID)
18. Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF ID)
19. Certification from the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP)
20. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Certification
21. Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) ID
22. Company IDs issued by private entities or institutions registered with or supervised or regulated either by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Securities and Exchange Commission or Insurance Commission
23. ID issued by the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA)