A Guide to the Best Online Shopping Sites in the Philippines
Manila as well as the rest of the Philippines is not exactly lacking in shopping malls. In fact, the fast-paced economy and the increasing GDP have led to the continuous building of new development centers, townships, and commercial spaces in the Metro. However, for busy individuals who prefer to stay in the comfort of their own homes, the growing popularity of online shopping malls serves as a good alternative to Manila’s ubiquitous malls.
SHOPPING MADE EASY. Online shopping offers convenience for people who are always on-the-go. (Photo from orderfulfilment.co.uk)
Here are some tips to remember to keep your online shopping experience a safe and convenient activity for you.
• Choose only to shop on reliable shopping sites. If the site sounds unfamiliar, or the items are priced too low to be true or looks like it was hosted in an unfamiliar domain, forego shopping and transfer to a more well-known site.
• Check the site for its security features. Websites that need to collate your information should carry the https:// on its URL. Trusted sites usually also carry a “padlock” icon or the Verisign trusted seal as protection against malware.
• Do not shop online using public WiFi. Whenever you use public WiFi, your personal information is being laid vulnerable to hackers. Shop in the safety of your own private internet connection.
• Check the site’s address and contact information. You should be able to contact the seller if you have questions or concerns about the product. It helps if the site has good customer service policy.
• Never give away your information unless it’s an encrypted site and has a strong privacy and data protection policy. Do not give away your credit card details via email.
Here are some of the country’s most trusted online shopping sites. These sites are known for neat and easy lay-out leading to quick browsing of products, flash sales and promotional offerings, availability of products, easy payment methods and quick delivery of items.
Lazada boasts of a wide array of items for sale and its easy cash-on-delivery payment method
1. Lazada – Arguably, the most famous online shopping site in the country today. The advantage of Lazada is the myriad of payment methods available to its customers depending on their preference, and its daily flash sales where lucky customers can buy a full-package Xbox Kinect at just PHP14,000. Website: http://www.lazada.com.ph/
2. Zalora – On the look-out for stylish, branded clothes but without the hassle of boutique shopping? Zalora offers access to a wide range of clothes, bags, footwear and accessories ready for delivery in two to three days. Clothes are a bit on the pricey side. Website: http://www.zalora.com.ph/
3. MetroDeal – Unlike Lazada and Zalora which are both online shopping sites, MetroDeal functions as a group-buying site. Deals are usually offered by different sellers so buyers must exercise caution in buying high-end deals like vacation packages, aesthetic treatments or hotel stays. Do not hesitate to call the merchant partner prior to purchase to ensure the reliability of offer. Website: http://www.metrodeal.com/online-shopping
4. Kimstore – If you are on the look-out for the latest and hottest gadget sold at a slightly lower price, Kimstore is for you. A GoNegosyo Awardee and Multiply’s Best Online Store in 2011, Kimstore is recognized as the country’s most trusted online shop for the latest in gadgets and tech. Website: http://kimstore.com/
The most trusted online shop for the latest in gadget and tech
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Article by Melanie Suzon
