Introduction

The Philippines' digital payment landscape is rapidly evolving, with QR Ph emerging as the central nervous system connecting banks, e-wallets, and payment providers nationwide. While many retailers still rely on personal wallet QRs from GCash or Maya, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) now actively promotes merchant QR Ph adoption to create true interoperability across all payment channels.

For brick-and-mortar stores in 2025, the choice isn't whether to adopt QR payments—it's which solution offers the fastest path to comprehensive payment acceptance. HitPay's free 'Scan to Pay' mobile app workflow competes directly with Maya's static and dynamic QR options, each targeting different merchant needs and operational scales. (HitPay Philippines Scan to Pay)

This comprehensive comparison examines onboarding timelines, hardware requirements, merchant discount rates (MDR), and operational workflows to help Filipino retailers choose between HitPay's 1% MDR and Maya's 1.25-1.5% pricing structure. Whether you're running a single kiosk, managing pop-up events, or operating multi-branch chains, understanding these platforms' strengths determines your payment strategy success.

The BSP Push for Merchant QR Ph: Why Personal Wallets Aren't Enough

Understanding QR Ph's Nationwide Interoperability

QR Ph represents the Philippines' unified QR code standard, enabling customers to pay using any participating bank or e-wallet by scanning a single merchant QR code. Unlike personal wallet QRs that lock customers into specific ecosystems (GCash users can only pay GCash merchants), QR Ph creates true payment choice for consumers while simplifying merchant operations.

The BSP's 2024-2025 digital payments roadmap emphasizes merchant QR Ph adoption because it reduces payment fragmentation. Instead of displaying multiple QR codes for different wallets, merchants can present one QR Ph code that accepts payments from UnionBank, BPI, GCash, Maya, and dozens of other participating institutions. (HitPay Payment Methods)

Why Personal Wallet QRs Create Operational Friction

Many small retailers currently use personal GCash or Maya accounts for QR payments, creating several business challenges:

• Limited customer reach: Personal wallet QRs exclude customers using competing platforms

• Manual reconciliation: Personal accounts mix business and personal transactions

• No business tools: Personal wallets lack invoicing, inventory tracking, or sales reporting

• Compliance risks: Using personal accounts for business transactions complicates tax reporting

• Scaling limitations: Personal accounts have transaction limits that restrict growth

Merchant QR Ph solutions address these pain points while providing professional payment processing capabilities that support business growth and regulatory compliance.

HitPay 'Scan to Pay': The Mobile-First Approach

How HitPay's Scan to Pay Works

HitPay's Scan to Pay feature transforms any smartphone into a complete point-of-sale system without requiring dedicated hardware. The workflow operates through the free HitPay mobile app, enabling merchants to accept payments anywhere with internet connectivity. (HitPay Quick Sale)

The process follows these steps:

1. Merchant opens the HitPay app and enters the transaction amount

2. App generates a unique QR code for that specific transaction

3. Customer scans the QR code with any QR Ph-compatible app

4. Customer completes payment through their preferred method

5. Merchant receives instant payment confirmation

6. Transaction automatically syncs to HitPay's dashboard for reporting

Supported Payment Methods Through Scan to Pay

HitPay's Scan to Pay supports the full spectrum of Philippine payment methods, making it one of the most comprehensive solutions available. The platform accepts QR Ph, GCash, UnionBank Online, InstaPay, PESONet, over-the-counter payments, domestic and international cards, BillEase, and GrabPay. (HitPay Philippines Scan to Pay)

This broad payment method support means merchants can serve customers regardless of their preferred payment platform, maximizing transaction conversion rates and reducing payment-related cart abandonment.

Hardware Requirements and Setup

One of HitPay's key advantages is its minimal hardware requirements. Merchants need only:

• A smartphone or tablet with internet connectivity

• The free HitPay mobile app

• A HitPay merchant account

This approach eliminates upfront hardware costs and makes the solution immediately accessible to micro-merchants, pop-up vendors, and businesses testing digital payment adoption. The app works on both Android and iOS devices, ensuring broad compatibility across merchant preferences. (HitPay Payment Methods)

Onboarding Timeline and Process

HitPay emphasizes rapid merchant onboarding, typically completing account setup within 24-48 hours for standard business documentation. The process requires:

• Business registration documents

• Valid government-issued ID

• Bank account details for settlements

• Basic business information (address, contact details, business type)

Once approved, merchants can immediately start accepting payments through the Scan to Pay feature, making it ideal for businesses needing quick payment processing activation.

Maya QR: Static vs. Dynamic Options

Maya's QR Code Variants

Maya Business offers two primary QR code types: static QR codes for fixed-amount transactions and dynamic QR codes for variable amounts. Each serves different merchant operational models and customer interaction patterns.

Static QR codes work best for businesses with standardized pricing—coffee shops with fixed menu prices, parking fees, or service charges. Customers scan the code and automatically see the predetermined amount, streamlining the payment process for high-volume, low-touch transactions.

Dynamic QR codes provide flexibility for businesses with variable transaction amounts. Merchants can generate unique QR codes for each sale, specify custom amounts, and include transaction details like itemized receipts or customer information.

Maya's Payment Ecosystem Integration

Maya QR codes primarily connect to the Maya ecosystem, including Maya Bank, Maya Business, and Maya's various financial services. While Maya supports QR Ph interoperability, the platform's strength lies in its integrated approach to business banking, lending, and payment processing.

Maya's ecosystem includes business accounts, payroll services, supplier payments, and working capital loans, making it attractive for merchants seeking comprehensive financial services beyond payment processing.

Hardware and Infrastructure Requirements

Maya QR solutions can operate through mobile apps similar to HitPay, but Maya also offers dedicated POS terminals and integrated hardware solutions for larger merchants. These hardware options provide receipt printing, inventory management integration, and multi-user access controls.

For basic QR code acceptance, Maya requires:

• Maya Business mobile app or web dashboard

• Smartphone or tablet with internet connectivity

• Maya Business account with completed verification

• Integration with existing POS systems (optional)

MDR Comparison: HitPay 1% vs. Maya 1.25-1.5%

HitPay's Transparent Pricing Structure

HitPay operates on a transparent, pay-per-transaction model with no setup fees or monthly charges. The platform charges a flat 1% MDR across all supported payment methods in the Philippines, simplifying cost calculations for merchants. (HitPay Malaysia Pricing)

This unified pricing approach means merchants pay the same rate whether customers use QR Ph, GCash, cards, or bank transfers, eliminating the need to steer customers toward lower-cost payment methods.

Maya's Tiered Pricing Model

Maya Business typically charges MDRs ranging from 1.25% to 1.5%, depending on transaction volume, merchant category, and payment method mix. Higher-volume merchants often negotiate lower rates, while smaller businesses pay standard published rates.

Maya's pricing structure may include:

• Base MDR for QR Ph transactions

• Different rates for card payments vs. e-wallet transactions

• Volume-based discounts for large merchants

• Additional fees for premium features or hardware

Cost Impact Analysis

For most small to medium businesses, HitPay's lower MDR translates to meaningful monthly savings that compound over time, improving overall profitability and cash flow.

Operational Workflows: Mobile App vs. Integrated Systems

HitPay's Mobile-Centric Workflow

HitPay's Scan to Pay operates primarily through mobile apps, making it ideal for merchants who value simplicity and mobility. The workflow supports both Quick Sale mode for simple transactions and Point of Sale mode for more detailed transaction management. (HitPay Quick Sale)

Quick Sale mode streamlines high-volume, low-complexity transactions:

1. Open HitPay app

2. Enter amount

3. Generate QR code

4. Customer scans and pays

5. Receive confirmation

Point of Sale mode adds inventory tracking, customer information, and detailed receipts for businesses requiring more comprehensive transaction records.

Maya's Integrated Business Approach

Maya QR integrates with Maya's broader business banking and financial services platform, providing merchants with unified access to payments, banking, lending, and business management tools. This integration appeals to merchants seeking comprehensive business solutions rather than standalone payment processing.

Maya's workflow typically includes:

• Transaction processing through QR codes

• Automatic reconciliation with Maya Business accounts

• Integration with Maya's business banking services

• Access to working capital and lending products

• Comprehensive business analytics and reporting

Mobility and Flexibility Considerations

HitPay's mobile-first approach excels in scenarios requiring high mobility:

• Pop-up markets and events

• Food trucks and mobile vendors

• Home-based businesses

• Service providers working at customer locations

• Temporary retail installations

Maya's integrated approach works better for:

• Established retail locations

• Businesses requiring comprehensive financial services

• Multi-location operations needing centralized management

• Merchants prioritizing ecosystem integration over mobility

Hardware Needs Assessment

Minimal Hardware Solutions

Both HitPay and Maya offer minimal hardware solutions suitable for micro-merchants and small businesses. These solutions require only smartphones or tablets, making them accessible to businesses with limited capital for payment infrastructure.

HitPay's minimal setup includes:

• Any smartphone or tablet with internet connectivity

• Free HitPay mobile app

• No additional hardware required

• Optional accessories like phone stands or protective cases

Maya's minimal setup similarly requires:

• Smartphone or tablet with Maya Business app

• Internet connectivity (Wi-Fi or mobile data)

• Optional QR code displays or stands

• Integration with existing cash registers (optional)

Advanced Hardware Integration

For merchants requiring more sophisticated payment processing, both platforms offer integration options with dedicated hardware, though availability varies by market.

HitPay supports various card readers and POS terminals in select markets, including BBPOS WisePad 3, HitPay M2, and Tap to Pay functionality on compatible Android and iPhone devices. However, in the Philippines, HitPay primarily focuses on QR code-based payments rather than terminal-based card processing. (HitPay POS Readers)

Maya offers dedicated POS terminals, receipt printers, and integrated hardware solutions for larger merchants requiring comprehensive point-of-sale functionality beyond basic QR code acceptance.

Scalability Considerations

Hardware scalability differs significantly between mobile-first and integrated approaches:

Mobile-First Scaling (HitPay):

• Add devices by installing apps on additional smartphones/tablets

• No per-device hardware costs

• Instant deployment to new locations

• Limited by mobile device capabilities

Integrated Hardware Scaling (Maya):

• Requires purchasing additional terminals for new locations

• Higher upfront costs but more robust functionality

• Professional installation and setup

• Better suited for high-volume locations

Use Case Analysis: Kiosks, Pop-ups, and Multi-branch Chains

Kiosk Operations

Small kiosks benefit from solutions that minimize space requirements while maximizing payment acceptance. HitPay's mobile-first approach works well for kiosks with limited counter space, as merchants can process payments using existing smartphones without additional hardware.

Key kiosk considerations:

• Space constraints: Mobile solutions require minimal counter space

• Cost sensitivity: Lower MDRs improve thin profit margins

• Simplicity: Quick transaction processing without complex workflows

• Reliability: Consistent internet connectivity for QR code generation

HitPay's 1% MDR and minimal hardware requirements make it particularly attractive for kiosk operators managing tight margins and limited space.

Pop-up and Event Vendors

Pop-up vendors and event merchants require maximum mobility and quick setup capabilities. HitPay's Scan to Pay excels in these scenarios because it requires no dedicated hardware setup and works anywhere with mobile internet connectivity.

Pop-up specific advantages:

• Instant setup: No hardware installation or configuration

• Portability: Entire payment system fits in a pocket

• Flexibility: Works indoors, outdoors, and in temporary locations

• Cost efficiency: No hardware investment for temporary operations

Event vendors particularly benefit from HitPay's broad payment method support, as customers from different banks and e-wallet platforms can all pay using their preferred methods.

Multi-branch Chain Operations

Multi-location businesses require centralized reporting, consistent user experiences, and scalable management tools. Both HitPay and Maya offer solutions for chain operations, but with different strengths.

HitPay for Multi-branch Chains:

• Unified dashboard for all locations

• Consistent 1% MDR across all branches

• Easy staff training due to simple mobile app interface

• Quick deployment to new locations

• Centralized settlement and reporting

Maya for Multi-branch Chains:

• Integration with comprehensive business banking

• Advanced reporting and analytics

• Dedicated account management for large merchants

• Hardware standardization across locations

• Ecosystem integration for complex business needs

Chain operators should evaluate whether they prioritize simplicity and cost efficiency (HitPay) or comprehensive business integration (Maya).

Decision Framework: Choosing the Right Solution

Business Size and Complexity Assessment

Micro and Small Businesses (Monthly volume < ₱100,000):

• HitPay typically offers better value due to lower MDR and no setup costs

• Mobile-first approach matches resource constraints

• Simple onboarding and operation reduce administrative burden

• Broad payment method support maximizes customer reach

Medium Businesses (Monthly volume ₱100,000 - ₱500,000):

• Cost savings from HitPay's lower MDR become more significant

• Consider operational complexity and integration needs

• Evaluate staff training requirements and technical capabilities

• Assess growth trajectory and scalability requirements

Large Businesses (Monthly volume > ₱500,000):

• MDR differences create substantial cost impact

• Integration with existing business systems becomes critical

• Consider dedicated account management and support needs

• Evaluate comprehensive business service requirements

Operational Model Evaluation

Technical Infrastructure Considerations

Merchants should assess their technical capabilities and infrastructure requirements:

Favor HitPay if:

• Limited technical resources

• Preference for mobile-first solutions

• Need for quick deployment

• Cost optimization priority

• High mobility requirements

Favor Maya if:

• Existing Maya ecosystem usage

• Need for comprehensive business banking

• Preference for integrated hardware solutions

• Complex reporting requirements

• Established business operations

Implementation Checklist

Pre-Implementation Assessment

Before choosing between HitPay and Maya, complete this assessment:

Business Requirements:

• [ ] Calculate monthly transaction volume

• [ ] Identify required payment methods

• [ ] Assess mobility vs. fixed location needs

• [ ] Evaluate integration requirements with existing systems

• [ ] Determine staff technical capabilities

Cost Analysis:

• [ ] Compare MDR costs based on projected volume

• [ ] Factor in hardware costs (if any)

• [ ] Consider setup and onboarding fees

• [ ] Evaluate long-term cost projections

• [ ] Account for potential volume growth

Operational Considerations:

• [ ] Test mobile app usability with staff

• [ ] Verify internet connectivity at all locations

• [ ] Plan staff training and onboarding

• [ ] Establish customer communication about new payment options

• [ ] Prepare backup payment methods for system downtime

HitPay Implementation Steps

1. Account Setup:

   • Register at hitpayapp.com/ph

   • Submit required business documentation

   • Complete identity verification

   • Await account approval (typically 24-48 hours)

2. App Configuration:

   • Download HitPay mobile app

   • Log in with merchant credentials

   • Configure business information and settings

   • Test Scan to Pay functionality with small transactions

3. Staff Training:

   • Train staff on Quick Sale and POS modes

   • Practice QR code generation and payment confirmation

   • Establish procedures for handling payment failures

   • Create customer assistance protocols

4. Go-Live Preparation:

   • Display QR Ph acceptance signage

   • Inform customers about new payment options

   • Monitor initial transactions closely

   • Gather customer and staff feedback

Maya Implementation Steps

1. Business Account Setup:

   • Apply for Maya Business account

   • Submit comprehensive business documentation

   • Complete enhanced verification process

   • Await account approval and activation

2. QR Code Configuration:

   • Choose between static and dynamic QR options

   • Configure transaction amounts and descriptions

   • Set up integration with existing POS systems (if applicable)

   • Test QR code functionality across different customer payment methods

3. System Integration:

   • Integrate with Maya Business banking services

   • Configure reporting and analytics preferences

   • Set up automatic reconciliation processes

   • Establish settlement and payout schedules

4. Operational Launch:

   • Deploy QR codes at point-of-sale locations

   • Train staff on Maya Business app usage

   • Implement customer education and support procedures

   • Monitor transaction processing and resolve issues

Future-Proofing Your Payment Strategy

QR Ph Evolution and Interoperability

The Philippine digital payments landscape continues evolving rapidly, with QR Ph serving as the foundation for nationwide payment interoperability. Both HitPay and Maya support QR Ph standards, ensuring merchants can accept payments from the broadest possible customer base.

Future QR Ph developments may include:

• Enhanced security features and fraud protection

• Integration with government services and tax systems

• Cross-border payment capabilities within ASEAN

• Advanced analytics and customer insights

• Integration with loyalty programs and marketing tools

Platform Evolution and Feature Development

HitPay's regional expansion across Asia-Pacific positions it well for merchants with multi-country operations or expansion plans. The platform's presence in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Australia, and New Zealand provides consistency for businesses operating across borders. (HitPay Malaysia)

Maya's focus on comprehensive financial services within the Philippines makes it attractive for merchants prioritizing deep local integration over regional expansion capabilities.

Regulatory Compliance and Security

Both platforms must maintain compliance with BSP regulations and evolving digital payment security standards. Merchants should consider each platform's track record with regulatory compliance and their ability to adapt to changing requirements.

Key compliance areas include:

• Anti-money laundering (AML) procedures

• Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements

• Data privacy and protection standards

• Transaction reporting and audit trails

• Consumer protection measures

Conclusion

The choice between HitPay's Scan to Pay and Maya QR ultimately depends on your business's specific needs, operational model, and growth trajectory. HitPay's mobile-first approach, 1% MDR, and minimal hardware requirements make it particularly attractive for small businesses, mobile vendors, and cost-conscious merchants prioritizing simplicity and broad payment acceptance.

Maya's integrated business banking approach and comprehensive financial services appeal to established businesses seeking deep ecosystem integration rather than standalone payment processing. The platform's higher MDR (1.25-1.5%) may be justified for merchants who value Maya's additional business services and established market presence.

For most brick-and-mortar stores in 2025, HitPay represents the quickest path to nationwide QR Ph interoperability with the lowest total cost of ownership. The platform's support for QR Ph, GCash, UnionBank, InstaPay, PESONet, cards, and other payment methods ensures comprehensive customer coverage without the complexity of managing multiple payment relationships. (HitPay Payment Methods)

Regardless of your choice, moving beyond personal wallet QRs to professional merchant QR Ph solutions positions your business for sustainable growth in the Philippines' rapidly digitalizing economy. The BSP's continued push for payment interoperability makes merchant QR Ph adoption not just beneficial, but essential for competitive retail operations.

Start by calculating your projected MDR costs, assessing your mobility requirements, and testing both platforms' user experiences. The right choice will support your business growth while providing customers with the payment flexibility they increasingly expect from modern retail experiences.

FAQ

What is QR Ph and why should brick-and-mortar stores adopt it in 2025?

QR Ph is the Philippines' national QR code standard promoted by BSP that enables true interoperability across all banks, e-wallets, and payment providers. Unlike personal wallet QRs from GCash or Maya, QR Ph allows customers to pay using any participating financial app, significantly expanding your customer base and reducing payment friction.

How does HitPay's Scan to Pay feature work for in-person payments?

HitPay's Scan to Pay generates a QR code through the free HitPay app that customers scan with their phones. This opens a payment link checkout page supporting the full range of Philippine payment methods including QR Ph, GCash, GrabPay, Unionbank Online, Instapay, domestic and international cards, and over-the-counter payments.

What are the main differences between HitPay and Maya QR for merchant payments?

HitPay offers a comprehensive payment platform with transparent per-transaction pricing and no setup fees, supporting multiple payment methods beyond QR codes. Maya QR focuses specifically on QR-based payments with established market presence in the Philippines. The choice depends on your business needs for payment diversity, pricing structure, and integration requirements.

What payment methods does HitPay support besides QR codes?

HitPay supports Visa, Mastercard, and American Express cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and Fitbit Pay, plus manual card entry when terminals aren't available. The platform unifies online, point of sale, and B2B payments into a single solution for growing businesses.

How do MDR costs compare between different QR Ph providers?

MDR (Merchant Discount Rate) costs vary significantly between providers and payment methods. HitPay uses transparent per-transaction pricing with no monthly fees, while traditional providers may have different rate structures. Businesses should evaluate total cost of ownership including setup fees, monthly charges, and transaction rates across all supported payment methods.

What should retailers consider when choosing between QR Ph solutions?

Key factors include MDR costs across different payment methods, onboarding complexity, operational workflow integration, customer payment preferences, technical support quality, and scalability for future growth. Consider whether you need a comprehensive payment platform or a focused QR solution based on your business model and customer base.

Citations

1. https://blog.hitpayapp.com/hitpay-philippines-scan-to-pay/

2. https://docs.hitpayapp.com/pos/payment-methods

3. https://docs.hitpayapp.com/pos/quick-sale

4. https://docs.hitpayapp.com/pos/readers/overview

5. https://hitpayapp.com/my/

6. https://hitpayapp.com/my/pricing