I'll admit I'm confused about the PP DD from the UB thing - nobody can set up a DD without your permission. PP can take money for payment from whatever source you tell them to i.e. 'preferred way of payment' - payment from balance, bank or DC/CC.
I don't think our bank cards are being slowly phased out or anything. Some sites use PP as an intermediary payment system and you don't need a PP account - they process it using your DC or CC. PP may be a more secure, cheaper and/or faster payment clearing option for some companies/sites.
If you're bothered go to the site again, put something in the basket and go to the checkout. When you're at the checkout have a look again at all the fine print, ticked boxes, icons/logos, etc., and look for what payment/clearing system they use. If you're still none the wiser then email the site and ask for clarification.