Filipino-owned technology company bXTRA PH has expanded its unified digital ecosystem to support the growth of local merchants—particularly sari-sari stores—through simplified onboarding, enhanced customer engagement tools, and a pioneering integration of environmental sustainability features — solutions not available on existing e-commerce and shopping platforms.
During a recent media roundtable, Jan-Vincent “Vince” Paredes Mercado, President and Managing Director of BeepXtra Philippines, Inc. (bXTRA PH), emphasized that bXTRA, launched in 2018, was founded on the belief that loyalty and rewards systems can be instrumental in driving business growth.
“We’re not just building a platform; we’re building a better way to shop, earn, and give back. Through this enhanced ecosystem, we are equipping Filipino enterprises with the digital tools to compete, grow, and deliver greater value to today’s consumers,” said Paredes Mercado, a computer programmer.
To address technological barriers faced by micro-retailers, particularly sari-sari store owners, bXTRA now offers a QR code-based merchant onboarding process with a minimal monthly fee, creating a low-friction entry point and forming part of the company’s revenue model.
The expanded platform also includes several new features such as a QR-based loyalty program, PASUYO (a personal shopping service from non-affiliated stores), food delivery, and online booking services.
Consumers using the platform can receive cashback rewards depending on the merchants’ reward rates.
To date, bXTRA has onboarded 75 merchants and registered over 67,000 users. Mercado expressed confidence that the company will reach breakeven by the end of the year.
In line with its commitment to sustainability, bXTRA has introduced the “Trash to Cashback” initiative—an innovative program that ties environmental responsibility to everyday consumer rewards. The initiative builds on Mercado’s prior experience in waste management through partnerships with local government units (LGUs), beginning with Bacolod City.
The company serves as collection agents with centers in Metro Manila and Bacolod. Users can bring their segregated waste to these sites, earning Environmental Points (EPs) that are instantly converted into cashback. These points can be redeemed for purchases with bXTRA vendors, used to pay for utilities, or transferred to other users.
Paredes Mercado said that bXTRA is currently in discussions with additional LGUs to expand its waste collection partnerships. It is also trusted by major brands, has ongoing arrangements with recycling companies in Metro Manila, and is working closely with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to strengthen its environmental programs.
