For millions in the Philippines, GCash has become more than just a handy app for sending money, buying insurance, or paying bills—it’s also become an avenue for exploring other financial opportunities, such as buying cryptocurrencies. 

Whether you’re dipping your toes into crypto for the first time or looking for a quick, hassle-free way to invest, GCash has your back. 

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about using GCash, how to buy crypto, and why it’s a perfect match for anyone ready to jump into crypto.

What is GCash?

GCash is a popular mobile wallet and payment platform in the Philippines. Think of it as your digital piggy bank, which lets you store, send, and receive money using your smartphone. It’s like having a bank account in your pocket — without visiting a physical branch. 

GCash was launched in 2004 by Globe Telecom, a leading telecommunications company in the Philippines. It has since become one of the nation’s most widely used fintech apps, boasting over 94 million registered users as of 2025.

Here’s what you can do with GCash:

• Pay for bills and purchases.
• Send money to family or friends.
• Invest and save money.
• Buy insurance
• Online shopping
• Shop online and offline with QR codes.

Can you buy crypto with GCash?

Yes.  You can cryptocurrency through its in-app feature, GCrypto. This allows users to convert Pesos into crypto and vice versa.  Alternatively, GCash can be used as a payment method on several crypto platforms, like Paxful.

Step-by-step guide on using Gcash to buy crypto

Option 1: Buy crypto via GCrypto in the GCash App

1. Open the GCash app on your phone.
2. Navigate to the GCrypto section.
3. Choose the cryptocurrency you want to buy.
4. Enter the amount and confirm the transaction.
5. Your crypto will appear in your GCrypto wallet instantly

Option 2: Use GCash on  Paxful

Here is a step-by-step process on how to get started:

• Create and verify your Paxful Account: Visit Paxful’s website or download the Paxful app via the Google Play Store or iOS. Click Sign Up, and provide your email address, username, and password. Verify your email address and complete the KYC process by uploading a valid ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license) and submitting a selfie.
• Search for offers using GCash: Once logged in, click Buy Bitcoin (or another cryptocurrency like ETH, USDC, or USDT). Click on the online wallets, then choose GCash as the payment method. Next, browse offers. You will see promoted offers and other offers. Select a preferred category and review the seller’s reputation, exchange rates, and trade limits.

• Start a trade: Once you have selected an offer that suits your needs, click Buy Now. Enter the amount of crypto you want to purchase (in PHP or crypto terms). Carefully review the trade terms provided by the seller, including payment instructions and deadlines.
• Make the payment via GCash: Begin the trade and follow the seller’s instructions in the secure chat (never take communication outside Paxful). Send the payment to the seller’s GCash account. Take a screenshot or photo of the payment receipt as proof.
• Confirm and receive your crypto: Notify the seller in the chat that the payment has been made. Wait for the seller to verify the payment and release the crypto. Once released, the cryptocurrency will appear in your Paxful wallet instantly.
• Leave feedback: Rate the seller and leave feedback to help others make informed decisions and support a trustworthy trading environment.

Safety tips for safe transactions

Buying crypto can be easy and secure if you follow these tips:

• Review the seller’s reputation : Always choose trusted sellers. This enables you to make informed decisions. Review items such as: number of completed trades, average trade time, activity,other trader reviews, etc.
• Verify payment details: Double-check wallet addresses and payment amounts.
• Use secure connections: Avoid using public Wi-Fi when making payments.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Protect your accounts with an extra security layer.
• Do your own research: Additional research will enable you to make more informed decisions.

What are the benefits of buying crypto with GCash?

Here’s why GCash is a preferred option for buying crypto:

• Convenience: Everything is managed through your smartphone.
• Speed: Transactions are almost instant.
• No bank account required: A great option for the unbanked population.
• User-friendly: Perfect for beginners exploring crypto for the first time.

👉Additional readings:

1. How to Send Money to the Philippines Online Using Bitcoin

2.  How to Buy and Sell Bitcoin in the Philippines using Tagalog

3. Paxful’s Safety Guide for Traders

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Important Note: Paxful does not provide investment, tax, or legal advice, and you are solely responsible for determining whether any financial transaction strategy or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance. Paxful may provide information that includes but is not limited to blog posts, articles, podcasts, tutorials, and videos. The information contained therein does not constitute investment advice, financial advice, trading advice, or any other sort of advice, and you should not treat any of the content as such. Paxful does not recommend that any digital asset should be bought, earned, sold, lent out, or held by you, and will not be held responsible for the decisions you make to buy, sell, trade, lend, or hold digital assets based on the information provided by us.