With the growth of mobile and internet access in the country, online shopping is emerging as a very attractive option for buyers and store owners alike.

Online shops, which use websites or social media platforms to move goods, attract those who have no time to go to the mall or simply prefer to shop in the comfort of their own homes, skipping the hassle of traffic jams and crowded shopping centers.

Payment options vary for those who prefer to shop online.

Many buyers still opt to pay or receive their goods by meeting with sellers in person. However, these can be inconvenient for those with busy schedules. It might also require additional transport expenses for all parties.

Some sellers also offer a "Cash on Delivery" (COD) option, where buyers can pay for goods upon delivery of their package.

WHY CHOOSE COD AND COP

Those wary of digital payment methods which require some disclosure of credit card details, prefer to use COD and other means such as those offered by leading service provider LBC.

Aside from COD, services introduced by LBC to help online businesses to further their aim of providing a "total solution for e-commerce" include Cash on Pick-up (COP), Returns and Refunds, and even Payroll Disbursement.

However, according to LBC's Senior Vice President for Philippine Retail Operations Oliver Valentin, there are still many untapped payment options that can make online selling safer for buyers and sellers alike.

"Nakita namin na ang mga Pilipino ngayon, nagpu-put up sila ng businesses and ginagamit nila ang e-commerce o ang online medium as a way to offer their products," he said.

According to Michelle Garnica of Garnica Surplus Store, she has been receiving positive feedback from her customers regarding LBC's new payment options.

"So far naman, mas happy ang customers ko dahil mas convenient para sa kanila kung paano magbayad," she said.

With COP, buyers can now add LBC as a pick up point. LBC's diverse store locations allow sellers to ship anywhere in the Philippines and reach more customers. They just have to visit any LBC branch and transact with an LBC personnel who will guide them through the process.

There is no need to create an account on big online shopping sites or maintain a minimum volume of transactions per month to start their online business. More information about LBC's new payment options can be found on their website.