MANILA, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles, Manila Bureau) – “I don’t have any loose change” can no longer be an excuse not to give to panhandlers.

While it may be true that more and more people don’t carry cash in their purses these days and instead pay with plastics and online apps, beggars have also become more enterprising.

From Shanghai to Manila, panhandlers have become high-tech, using QR codes to identify themselves and to solicit for loose change, or in some cases, small bills.

In Manila, where, like in most of the Philippines, GCash has become the top choice for cashing in our out.

So when traversing the streets of Manila, don’t be surprised to see a woman with baby in tow, or a little child asking for some financial help using her GCash QR code. Your contribution goes directly into her account — or possibly— into the account of her “boss.”