Top Crypto Trading Platforms in the Philippines

To assist Filipino users in finding the most reliable exchanges, we’ve ranked the top options operating within the Philippines. This review focuses on exchanges that comply with regulations set by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), support for PHP deposit methods, security features, and fees. Below is an overview of the five leading crypto platforms in the Philippines.

1. Bybit

‍Bybit is the top exchange in the Philippines, serving over 63 million registered clients across 160 countries. It provides access to 1,700 digital assets for spot, futures, and options trading with up to 100x leverage. Filipino users benefit from free PHP deposits and Tagalog-speaking support.

The platform is packed with advanced tools such as Copy Trading, TradeGPT for AI-powered trading insights, and Trading Bots, including Grid and DCA Bots, for automated management. Additionally, its Bybit Earn program offers flexible savings, staking opportunities, and liquidity mining.

For those exploring the broader crypto ecosystem, Bybit integrates Web3 services, including NFTs, decentralized wallets, and on-chain staking. Bybit also recently introduced the Bybit Card, offering up to 10% cashback, 8% APR, and exclusive privileges for customers.

• Fees: Maker and taker fees start at 0.1%.
• Supported Assets: Over 1,700 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Holds multiple global regulatory licenses and available in the Philippines.
• PHP Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, GCash, PayMaya, Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit cards, and debit cards.

2. OKX

OKX is popular for its decentralized finance (DeFi) offerings and diverse product suite. With 30 million users globally and operations in over 180 regions, its ecosystem spans DeFi, spot trading, futures, and options, making it a go-to platform for exploring advanced financial tools.

The platform’s DeFi hub is a standout feature, enabling users to manage their portfolios by connecting their OKX Wallet. It provides access to top decentralized applications (DApps), yield farming, blockchain gaming options, and an NFT marketplace for users to create, buy, and sell NFTs. 

For institutional users, OKX offers advanced trading solutions, including OTC liquidity networks and ultra-low latency API connectivity. Filipino traders benefit from zero trading fees on quick conversions and the ability to trade crypto directly from its app or desktop platform.

• Fees: 0.2% fee for spot trading.
• Supported Assets: Over 350 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Holds multiple global regulatory licenses and is available in the Philippines.
• PHP Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, GCash, and credit or debit cards.

3. Coins.ph

Coins.ph is based in Pasig City and is the country’s most trusted crypto wallet and exchange, offering a comprehensive suite of services tailored to the needs of Filipino users. With a user-friendly interface, it enables individuals to buy, sell, and store 90 digital currencies.

Beyond cryptocurrency transactions, Coins.ph provides a range of financial services that integrate digital payments into everyday life. Users can easily pay over 120 bills, purchase mobile loads for all networks, and even explore Web3 gaming through Coins Arcade. 

There is also Coins Pro, which offers a professional-grade spot exchange with competitive fees and advanced tools. Additionally, Coins.ph is fully licensed by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), holding both Electronic Money Issuer (EMI) and Virtual Currency licenses.

• Fees: Trading fees start at 0.25%.
• Supported Assets: 90 Cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Licensed and regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
• PHP Deposit Methods: GCash, PayMaya, 7-Eleven, bank transfers, and cash deposits.

4. Binance

Binance has firmly established itself as the leading exchange globally, with over 256 million registered users in 100+ countries. It is widely adopted in the Philippines for its extensive offerings, including spot trading, margin trading, options markets, and futures contracts.

The platform’s Binance Earn program offers a range of opportunities to grow crypto holdings passively, including staking, liquidity farming, and flexible savings products. Binance Launchpad gives users early access to promising crypto projects, while its NFT marketplace allows trading NFTs.

It prioritizes security and user satisfaction. It implements industry-leading measures, including two-factor authentication, cold storage of funds, and its Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) to protect against losses. Filipino users also benefit from the platform’s 24/7 Tagalog-speaking support.

• Fees: 0.1% fee for spot trading.
• Supported Assets: Over 350 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: While not directly regulated in the Philippines, it remains accessible to investors in the country.
• PHP Deposit Methods: Credit or debit cards.

5. KuCoin

KuCoin is an altcoin exchange trusted by over 30 million users across 200+ countries. Known as the "People's Exchange," it has become a go-to platform for Filipino traders, offering access to over 700 cryptocurrencies, including a diverse range of altcoins, meme coins, and new tokens. 

One of KuCoin’s standout features is GemSPACE, an exclusive listing hub for discovering new crypto projects with significant growth potential. Additionally, KuCoin’s Trading Bot allows users to automate their trading strategies, enabling passive income generation without constant market monitoring. 

For those seeking to maximize returns, the platform also supports margin trading, leveraged tokens, and futures trading with up to 10x leverage. Its KuCoin Earn program offers a variety of earning opportunities, including staking, lending, borrowing, and fixed savings products. 

• Fees: Spot trading fees from 0.1%.
• Supported Assets: More than 700 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: KuCoin is not directly regulated in the Philippines.
• PHP Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, Gcash, digital wallets, debit and credit cards.

Is Crypto Regulated in the Philippines?

Yes, crypto is regulated in the Philippines, overseen by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). In 2017, the BSP issued Circular No. 944, which mandates that virtual currency exchanges register as remittance and transfer companies and implement robust anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) measures. 

Building upon this, in December 2024, the SEC proposed additional rules for crypto-asset service providers (CASPs). These proposed regulations require entities to submit comprehensive disclosure documents at least 30 days before any marketing activities or offerings in the Philippines. 

The disclosure must include detailed information about the offeror, the issuer (if different), key features and risks of the crypto-assets, rights, and obligations attached, an outline of the underlying technology, and, where applicable, details of the person seeking admission to trading on a crypto-asset trading venue. 

How is Crypto Taxed in the Phillippines?

In the Philippines, crypto taxation is overseen by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), with current regulations treating digital assets as intangible property. Consequently, gains from crypto transactions are subject to income tax, with rates ranging from 0% to 35%, depending on the total taxable income.

For self-employed individuals and professionals, there's an option to avail of an 8% tax on gross sales or receipts exceeding ₱250,000, in lieu of the graduated income tax and percentage tax. However, if cryptocurrency is considered a capital asset, it may be subject to capital gains tax.

It's important to note that the taxation of cryptocurrency in the Philippines is subject to change, as the government continues to develop and refine its regulatory framework. For instance, there have been discussions about imposing a capital gains tax of up to 15% on cryptocurrency transactions.

Cryptocurrency Adoption in the Philippines

The cryptocurrency market in the Philippines is expected to reach $641.5 million in revenue by mid-2025, reflecting a steady rise in adoption among individuals and businesses. By then, the number of users is projected to surpass 10.55 million, accounting for approximately 6.13% of the population.

The main exchanges in the Philippines include global exchanges such as Binance, Kraken, and Coinbase, as well as local platforms like Coins.ph and PDAX (Philippine Digital Asset Exchange). These exchanges enable seamless transactions in Philippine Pesos (PHP) and offer secure platforms designed for Filipino users.

How to Buy Bitcoin in the Philippines

Filipino investors interested in purchasing Bitcoin can do so through a crypto exchange that supports Philippine Peso (PHP) deposits. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Create an Account: Go to the official website or mobile app of a trusted exchange that supports PHP transactions. Click “Sign Up” and complete the registration process by providing your email address, mobile number, and any required verification documents.
2. Deposit Philippine Peso (PHP): Navigate to the platform’s deposit section and select PHP as your deposit currency. Enter the amount you wish to deposit and choose a payment method, such as bank transfer, GCash, or other local options.
3. Select Bitcoin: Once your deposit is processed, visit the trading section of the platform. Search for Bitcoin and find the PHP/BTC trading pair to view the current market price.
4. Complete Your Purchase: Decide how much Bitcoin you want to buy or how much PHP you want to spend. Carefully review the transaction details, including any associated fees and the total cost. Confirm your purchase to complete the transaction.

After purchasing Bitcoin, it will be stored in your exchange wallet. Consider transferring your Bitcoin to a private wallet where you have full control of your keys. 

Final Thoughts

The Philippines is a thriving market for cryptocurrency, with increasing adoption driven by regulatory oversight from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). 

Among the top exchanges in the Philippines, platforms like Bybit, Binance, and Coins.ph provide spot and futures trading, staking, and savings opportunities for Filipino investors.