EXPLORE THE WORLD AGAIN WITH THE NEW EXPLORER CREDIT CARD BY BDO AND AMERICAN EXPRESS

13 Jan, 2023, No comments

Manila, Philippines, 12 January 2023 – BDO Unibank, Inc. and American Express have launched the American Express^® Explorer™ Credit Card (“the Explorer Card”) in the Philippines for the aspiring and frequent travelers eager to explore the world again. Cardmembers earn American Express’ Membership Rewards^® points, which never expire, and can be redeemed for air miles with a wide range of airlines including award-winning ones and for hotel loyalty points with thousands of hotel properties[1] – giving them greater flexibility and choice, and allowing them to travel for less.

Every P40 spent entitles Cardmembers to earn one Membership Rewards^® point. Each point can then be redeemed for one air mile at six frequent flyer partners: Mabuhay Miles, KrisFlyer, Cathay Membership, Royal Orchid Plus, Enrich, and Delta SkyMiles. The points can also be converted into hotel loyalty points from Marriot Bonvoy and Hilton Honors, which both have thousands of properties worldwide including in the Philippines. In addition, the Explorer Card has one of the best rewards rates in the country and no conversion fee.

“We have seen substantial growth in travel-related spending among our American Express Cardmembers. In 2022, airline ticket purchase alone has increased exponentially versus the previous year,” says Rolando C. Tanchanco, BDO Senior Executive Vice President and Consumer Banking Group Head. “With the return of consumer confidence in travel, the American Express Explorer Credit Card is a timely addition to our extensive line-up of credit card products with our partner American Express.”

“After three years of the pandemic and with borders reopening, travel is back. Our American Express Explorer Credit Card launched in partnership with BDO, gives our Cardmembers in the Philippines, whether they are travelling solo, with family or with friends, the ability to earn rewards and travel for less, while doing what they are passionate about.’’ said Mr. Sanjiv Malhotra, Vice President and General Manager, Global Network Services, SouthEast Asia and South Pacific.

The Explorer Card was first introduced by American Express in Australia in 2016 and Hong Kong in 2021. Now, American Express with BDO are bringing the Explorer Card to the Philippines—a first in Southeast Asia. The new card forms part of the extensive range of BDO-issued American Express Cards.

Cardmembers can redeem their Membership Rewards points from a wide choice of local and international airlines and hotel loyalty programs.

Frequent Flyer Partners

· Mabuhay Miles (Philippine Airlines)

· KrisFlyer (Singapore Airlines)

· Cathay Membership (Cathay Pacific Airlines)

· Royal Orchid Plus (Thai Airways)

· Enrich (Malaysia Airlines)

· Delta SkyMiles (Delta Airlines)

Hotel Partners

· Marriot Bonvoy

· Hilton Honors

Other benefits include:

· Up to P10M Travel Accident and Inconvenience Coverage

· 2,000 Bonus Membership Rewards points upon reaching P600,000 spend per year

· Year-round deals, rebate or cashback, and instant savings from BDO partner merchants

· Complimentary Annual Fee for the 1st year (Principal and Supplementary)

· Waived Annual Fee upon reaching P450,000 spend per year

For more details or to apply for the American Express^® Explorer™ Credit Card, visit www.americanexpress.com.ph or go to any BDO branch near you. (PR)

Branch expansion, nakakatulong sa job creation ng bansa

9 Jan, 2023, No comments

Para kay Rikko Martin Guillermo, isang management officer na naka-destino sa BDO Network Bank Lahug, Cebu, malaking tulong sa kanyang finances ang malipat sa kanyang bayan dahil mas nama-manage niya ang kanyang pang-araw-araw na gastusin.

Sa kabila ng desisyon ng ibang kababayan na maghanap ng trabaho abroad, marami pa ring job opportunities ang naghihintay na mapunan dito sa Pilipinas dahil sa patuloy na expansion ng mga businesses mula sa iba’t ibang industriya.

Sa katunayan, base sa pinaka-latest na Labor Force Survey, ang employment rate sa bansa ay tumaas ng 95.5% noong Oktubre 2022 mula 95.0% ng nakalipas na buwan.

Ang BDO Network Bank, ang community bank ng BDO, ay patuloy na nagsasagawa ng branch expansion sa mga malalayong bayan sa probinsya. Mahigit 800 job positions tulad ng branch heads, service officers, account officers at marketing assistants ang binuksan ng bangko para suportahan ang 106 branches at loan offices na nag-open noong 2022.

“Ang pagbibigay ng opportunidad para sa mga local talents sa iba’t ibang komunidad ay hindi lamang bilang suporta sa expansion ng BDO Network Bank. Layunin din namin na makatulong sa pag-usad ng ekonomiya ng bansa,” ani Jesus Antonio S. Itchon, president ng BDO Network Bank (BDONB). Inaasahang mas marami pang trabaho ang mabubuksan dahil plano ng BDO Network Bank na magtayo ng karagdagang 100 branches sa mga probinsya sa 2023.

Oportunidad na malapit sa pamilya

Hangad din ng BDO Network Bank na matulungan ang mga kababayang naghahanap ng trabaho sa kanilang bayan para hindi na malayo sa kanilang pamilya.

Tulad halimbawa ng nangyari kay Rikko Martin Guillermo, network management officer ng BDO Network Bank-Lahug, Cebu.

“I am very thankful kasi pinayagan akong ma-destino sa Lahug, Cebu City office. Malaking tulong ito sa akin financially kasi magkasama na kami ng mahal ko sa buhay,” ani Rikko.

Malaki ang pasasalamat ni Allan Mark Nobleza, isang account representative sa BDO Network Bank Sultan Kudarat branch, ang paglipat niya sa kanyang hometown dahil bukod sa malapit na siya sa kanyang pamilya, mas naging productive siya sa kanyang trabaho.

Malaki rin ang pasasalamat ni Allan Mark Nobleza, dating credit assistant sa BDONB Makati office na ngayon ay account representative sa BDO Network Bank-Sultan Kudarat, Esperanza branch.

Nakatulong kay Mark ang malipat sa kanyang hometown dahil hindi na siya nag-aalala sa kanyang mga magulang at mas naging productive pa siya sa trabaho. Aniya, masayang umuwi araw-araw sa pamilya.

Para sa mga interesadong maging bahagi ng BDO Network Bank, bisitahin ang BDO Network Bank official FB page https://www.facebook.com/BDONetworkBankPH para makita ang list of job vacancies.

Maaari ring magpadala ng resume o CV sa mga sumusunod na email addresses na naka-assign sa inyong location. Sundin lang ang subject o title format sa ibaba:

Example: Field Sales Officer_Tagbilaran_Juan Dela Cruz

NCR & Central Luzon: [email protected]

North Luzon: [email protected]com.ph

South Luzon: [email protected]

Visayas: [email protected]

Mindanao: [email protected]ph

Ang BDO Network Bank ay hindi humihingi ng kahit na anong fees para sa job application. Para makasigurado, makipag-ugnayan lang sa mga lehitimong HR officers ng bangko o mag-PM sa https://www.facebook.com/BDONetworkBankPH. (PR)

Is there a golden rule in stock market investing?

5 Jan, 2023, No comments

WITH inflation rate not yet showing signs of slowing down, is there a golden rule that stock market investors should follow to keep their investments at bay?

According to BDO Securities, there is no single golden rule for stock market investing. But to have an effective stock market investing strategy, stock market enthusiasts must observe the following:

· Do your assignment – Conduct a background check on your stock selections and do it carefully. Make sure that the companies you will invest in have good fundamentals and prospects.

· Plan and time your entry and exit levels - Before buying a stock, make sure that you have already planned where you will sell your position based on these scenarios: if your stock rallied higher or if the market went against your expectations.

· Manage your risks – Regularly reevaluate your current stock holdings and assess whether your portfolio is still viable to market conditions. Check whether you have to re-balance and rotate to sectors that could potentially exhibit strength in the coming weeks or months. Make sure that your exposure on the stock or sector is also ideal based on the reward-to-risk ratio of your trades.

The state of the economy significantly sways stock market movements. When inflation is high, it puts a dent on consumer spending and companies will inevitably feel the pinch on their profits, which may cause stock prices to dip.

“The ongoing geopolitical tensions, supply chain issues, and US Dollar strength may keep inflation elevated. Nonetheless, we will keep watch of signs of easing inflation (i.e. sustained drop in key commodity prices like oil) as it is positive for stocks and may induce a market rally,” said BDO Securities, a brokerage firm which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BDO Unibank’s investment banking arm BDO Capital & Investment Corporation.

In 2023, BDO Securities forecasts inflation to gradually ease to 5.0% from an average of 5.7% this year.

When it comes to appropriate asset allocation for investors with different risk profiles, BDO Securities suggests that the more conservative an investor is, he/she should have more exposure on fixed income assets. Meanwhile, the more aggressive the investor’s risk profile is, his/her portfolio mix should have more exposure on riskier assets such as equities. (PR)

Stronghold Insurance marks 2022 with a bang, welcomes new year with fireworks display

2 Jan, 2023, No comments

A five-minute fireworks display lit up the sky above the Stronghold Insurance Tower in Cagayan de Oro to mark the end of 2022 with thanksgiving and welcome the new year with a renewed commitment to serve its clients.

Stronghold Insurance Company Senior Vice President Pilarcita "Ging" Roa Pearson said the fireworks display was initially planned during the inauguration and grand opening of the Stronghold Insurance Mindanao Corporate Office along Tiano-Yacapin Streets last July, 2022.

"Due to the hectic schedule and since the other floors and roof deck were not yet done, we moved it to the New Year's eve. This is to show that we are getting stronger and bigger to give the best services to our clients," she said.

Laarnie Pearl Roa Pearson, Stronghold Insurance Regional Manager, also said the fireworks display is also a symbol of praise and thanksgiving to God for the overflowing blessings and success the company received and accomplished in 2022.

"62 years na ang Stronghold in the non-life insurance industry and we are so thankful to our clients, agents, partners and the city government," she said.

The major milestone the company achieved in 2022 was the inauguration of its sophisticated 9-storey corporate building, which includes a business hotel, roof deck and parking space.

After the grand opening, an increase of clients was noted, more agents came in and more partnerships were forged, the company executives said.

Stronghold Insurance Company Senior Vice President Pilarcita "Ging" Roa Pearson (left) and Regional Manager Laarnie Pearl Roa Pearson (Right)

As it welcomes the new year, Stronghold Insurance renews its commitment to better serve its clients.

Stronghold's regional manager said the company plans to branch out to other areas and put up satellite offices to cater all clients.

"We want to give the best services to our clients in 2023,"Laarnie Pearson said.

Ging Pearson also said the company is set to expand and connect with other corporate partners and focus on other insurance products like microinsurance.

The company is also considering offering life insurance services.

"It might be challenging but we will do our very best to serve the purpose of why Stronghold exist," she added. (NMDS Staff)

FDC Misamis grants assistance to Villanueva farmers and fisherfolks

31 Dec, 2022, No comments

Villanueva, Misamis Oriental - FDC Misamis Power Corporation (FDC Misamis) granted assistance to the Balacanas Vegetables Famers Association and Balacanas Fisherfolks Association in its pursuit to improve the income and productivity of smallholder farmers and fisherfolks within its host barangays. The groups received various farm and fisherfolk supplies critical to boosting productivity. The grant is anchored under the FDC Misamis’ Project AYOS (Advancing Youth and Farmers Opportunities on Sustainable Agriculture) Program, which aims to expand livelihood opportunities and equip the pilot beneficiaries with training, tools, and technique. Project AYOS is now in its second year of implementation and is in partnership with the Municipal Agriculture Office of Villanueva and Agri-Coop PH, the technical partner for the capacity and market linkages. The photo shows (from L-R) FDC Misamis' Analiza Miso, Cor. Comm. & External Affairs Manager, and representatives of Balacanas Fisherfolks Association, headed by Hon. Nila Pagaling, Punong Barangay of Balacanas, during the ceremonial turnover. (Photo Release)

Sitel Group® finds new home in Davao City

19 Dec, 2022, No comments

LOOK: Sitel Business Services Corporation (SBSC) of Sitel Group® will soon be accepting associates into its new home in Davao which will open in 2023 at the Damosa Diamond Tower, Damosa IT Park, JP Laurel Avenue, Lanang. Sitel Group is one of the largest global providers of customer experience (CX) products and solutions in the world. Present at the recent lease signing were (L-R) Damosa Land Inc. Asst. Vice President for Commercial & Leasing Lora V. Porras, Damosa Land Inc. President Ricardo Luis Mateo F. Lagdameo, Sitel Group Chief Financial Officer-Ameripac Zameer Ahmed Zaheer Basha and Sitel Group Director of Legal Affairs and Real Estate for Asia-Pacific Atty. Marlonissa N. Quilaton. (PR)

Aboitiz InfraCapital completes deal with GMR-Megawide for GMCAC, the developer and operator of Mactan Cebu International Airport

19 Dec, 2022, No comments

Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. (AIC) finalized its landmark deal with Megawide Construction Corporation (Megawide) and GMR Airports International, B.V. (GAIBV) for AIC to acquire shares in GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (GMCAC), the developer and operator of the award-winning Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA).

AIC acquired a 33 and 1/3% minus 1 share stake in GMCAC from Megawide and GAIBV for a total consideration of PhP 9.5 billion. Simultaneously, Megawide and GAIBV have issued exchangeable notes to AIC for the aggregate amount of PhP 15.5 billion. The exchangeable notes will mature on 30 October 2024 and are expected to be exchanged by AIC for the remaining 66 and 2/3% plus 1 share of GMCAC’s outstanding capital stock. GMR Infrastructure Limited will continue to provide support as the Technical Services Provider to GMCAC.

“We at Aboitiz InfraCapital are excited to have successfully completed this landmark deal with Megawide and GMR for GMCAC. We look forward to working side by side with our partners in further developing the Mactan-Cebu International Airport into a world class airport. The goal is to propel MCIA to the next level and establish its status as one of the Philippines’ premier international airports,” said AIC President and CEO Cosette Canilao.

AIC envisions the deal to be the first step in its continued interest in the airport sector and in furthering its commitment to develop Philippine infrastructure in line with meeting the country’s recovery and rapid economic growth.

AlphaPrimus Advisors acted as financial advisor, Gulapa Law as legal counsel and IATA as air traffic advisor respectively to AIC in this transaction. (PR)

With the completion of its deal with GMR-Megawide for GMCAC, Aboitiz InfraCapital eyes to establish the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) as one of the PH’s premier international airports. Photo supplied

BDO starts mentorship of out-of-school youth in cloud services

15 Dec, 2022, No comments

BDO Unibank welcomed the first batch of on-the-job trainees on cloud-related work as part of its support to the collaboration of YouthWorks PH and Philippine Business Education (PBEd) with Amazon Web Services (AWS), which aims to give free cloud computing skills training for 600 unemployed and out-of-school youths across the Philippines via AWS re/Start.

The Bank has committed the expertise of its experienced IT professionals to train 100 youths on cloud services, infrastructure and network monitoring, system administration, low-risk security operation activities, SIT/UAT testing, and automation scripting.

This December, the first batch will undergo a three-month mentorship and afterward, be eligible for employment opportunities in BDO. But before starting their onsite training with the Bank, the trainees completed remote mentoring, and employability skills and technical-vocational training with AWS re/Start in Quezon City last month.

“BDO is committed to delivering products and services that exceed customer expectations. As we take our financial services to the next level with the use of cloud technologies, it is vital that we have the right people for the job. Cloud talents trained by AWS re/Start through YouthWorks PH will play a critical role toward this big step towards the future,” said BDO Unibank President and CEO Nestor Tan during the contract-signing event.

BDO is the only bank to be part of this collaborative initiative with AWS and YouthWorks PH, a private-sector driven youth employability program of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and PBEd. Other partners include technology startups PROUDCLOUD and Launchgarage. (PR)

NEXT GENERATION. BDO Unibank proudly supports the collaboration between Philippine Business Education (PBEd) and Amazon Web Services (AWS) by providing on-the-job training on cloud-related services to participating unemployed and out-of-school youth across the country through YouthWorks Ph and AWS re/Start. In the photo are (from left): BDO President and CEO Nestor V. Tan, US Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d'affaires Heather Variava, PBEd Executive Director Love Basillote, AWS Philippines Country Head Stephen Thomas Misa, USAID/Philippines Mission Director Ryan Washburn, and LaunchGarage COO Jojo Flores.

BDO Wins the Industry Champion of the Year for the 2nd Time, Recognized as Top Sustainability Advocate in Asia for 2nd Consecutive Year

13 Dec, 2022, No comments

BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO) was named Industry Champion of the Year and Top Sustainability Advocate in Asia, both for the second time at the 2022 Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The Industry Champion award is presented to companies that have a distinct competitive advantage, set industry trends, and have commendable best practices in place. Winners in this category have shown the ability to evolve the focus of their enterprises along with the dynamic changes of the industries they serve to sustain as market leaders.

BDO is the country’s largest bank in terms of total assets, loans, deposits and trust funds under management. The Bank has the country’s largest distribution network, with over 1,600 consolidated operating branches and more than 4,500 ATMs nationwide. It also has 16 international offices in Asia, Europe, North America and the Middle East. The Bank also offers extensive digital banking solutions to make banking easier, faster, and more secure for its clients.

“This recognition embodies BDO’s commitment to sustainability for the benefit of all its stakeholders, its customers and the hard work of its employees who are at the core of our business. We believe that our success as an institution is dependent on the growth and resiliency of the ecosystem we operate in.” said Nestor V. Tan, President and CEO of BDO Unibank.

BDO also won the Top Sustainability Advocate in Asia award for the second straight year. The Bank recognizes the critical role of financial institutions to manage its environmental and social risks and finance the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy. In 2021, BDO financed a mix of 54 renewable energy projects for wind, solar, geothermal, hydro, and biomass energy sources accounting for 2,230 megawatts of total installed capacity nationwide. BDO continues to expand its Sustainable Finance initiatives, in place since 2010, towards funding new and existing renewable energy projects to increase their capacity, and support the country’s avoidance of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Bank also finances energy efficiency projects and green buildings.

The Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability Awards (ACES) recognizes successful companies and individuals in Asia across two main domains; leadership and corporate social responsibility. The awards value and recognize services and achievements of businesses, both large and small, national and international, for their esteemed contributions to their communities and the world.

The ACES Awards is organized annually by MORS Group, an organization committed to assisting companies, corporate leaders, and eminent industrialists share a platform to exhibit leadership and sustainability excellence. (PR)

Stronghold Insurance, Al-Amanah Bank ink pact to promote non-life insurance

9 Dec, 2022, No comments

THE Stronghold Insurance Company Inc. (SICI) has forged an agreement with Al-Amanah Islamic Investment Bank of the Philippines (AAIIBP) to further promote and deliver non-life insurance products, especially to Muslim communities in Mindanao.

In a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on Tuesday, December 6, both parties agreed for a mutual partnership and collaboration that aims to promote and advance the importance of non-life insurance.

As part of the deal, Stronghold will open an account with Al-Amanah Bank where premiums collected from the clients are deposited.

SICI Vice President Jose Vallejos Jr. said the deal will pave the way for the company to expand and penetrate in Muslim areas in Mindanao.

He said through the MOA, the company is seeing an increase of clients as Al-Amanah Bank will help promote Stronghold's insurance products to its clients.

"Kami yung unang accredited non-life insurance company na partner ng Al- Amanah," he said.

"Kung insured sa Stronghold ang mga clients ng Al-Amanah magkakaroon po sila ng financial protection at magtitiwala sa amin kasi ii-endorse kami ng Al-Amanah Bank," he added.

Al-Amanah Bank Chairman Alex Bangcola said part of the MOA is a mutual marketing program between the two parties.

"We will help them market their insurance policies in Muslim areas," Bangcola said.

The AAIIBP is a government and Islamic bank authorized by law to conduct Islamic Banking in the Philippines.

"The MOA signing is just the start of the relationship and partnership. We need to move forward and put this into concrete terms," he added. (NMDS Staff)

SM, BDO treat families of OFWs through Pamaskong Handog 2022

29 Nov, 2022, No comments

SM Supermalls and BDO are once again bringing a one-of-a-kind, fun Christmas celebration to overseas Filipinos and their families with Pamaskong Handog events happening in SM City Santa Rosa on December 3, SM City Iloilo on December 10, and SM CDO Downtown Premiere on December 17 at 2PM.

Massive prizes, entertainment, and bonding moments await the OFWs and their beneficiaries at the Pamaskong Handog 2022 with the theme Kita-Kits Muli sa SM". Never miss out on the special performance of BDO Remit endorser Piolo Pascual and comedians MC & Lassy who will be hosting all three events. For added fun and humor, comedians Ate Gay and Regina will be performing in SM City Sta. Rosa and SM City Iloilo, while Divine Tetay and Tonton Soriano will be at the SM CDO Downtown Premiere.

Aside from celebrity shows, SM affiliates will give away exclusive deals and discounts for Kabayan Savings account holders. Discounts are available every day at SM throughout December. Avail Miniso’s Php300 discount on Mondays; Php500 off at the SM Stores on Tuesdays; 10% off at Surplus Shop on Wednesdays; and on Thursdays, SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and SM Savemore will be giving cheese balls for free! There is also a Php500 off discount from the Baby Company which started last November 15 and will run until December 31.

As a special holiday gift, BDO is offering a special promo for overseas Filipinos and their beneficiaries. They can get up to PHP20,000 waived fees on Home Loan and PHP30,000 waived fees for Auto Loan. Also, participants in the events get a chance to win PHP1M worth of insurance coverage from BDO Life, cash prizes, and freebies from BDO Cash, as well as special gifts from BDO Network Bank.

BDO and partner sponsors, Western Union and WorldRemit, will also have bingo, games, and a raffle for the participants. Plus, BDO will provide financial tips on savings and investment to help overseas Filipinos plan their futures as part of this year’s Pamaskong Handog.

To join the Pamaskong Handog event, BDO Kabayan Savings account holders plus one (1) companion each just need to present their ATM card or passbook.

Overseas Filipinos may join the fun by watching the live streaming of the Pamaskong Handog events on the BDO Kabayan Facebook page with a special viewing inside BDO Remit and BDO Unibank offices in Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, France, and the United Arab Emirates.

There’s going to be a ton of fun as balikbayans and their families get to celebrate the holidays again at SM. Since 2012, Pamaskong Handog provided entertainment and gifts for overseas Filipino and their beneficiaries. And although the celebration has gone virtual due to the pandemic, BDO and SM didn’t stop spreading happiness during the most wonderful time of the year,

For more details on Pamaskong Handog events or #SparklingSMallidays activities, visit www.smsupermalls.com/, www.bdo.com.ph, or BDO Kabayan Facebook page. (PR)

BDO Trust Recognized as The Asset Management Company of the Year for 5 Consecutive Years

10 Nov, 2022, No comments

BDO Trust continues to demonstrate its leadership in product and service innovation through constant improvements on its investment offerings such as the BDO Pension 360, a new take on corporate pension fund management. Known as an industry first, BDO Pension 360 is a comprehensive corporate retirement plan solution designed to help companies fulfill retirement benefit obligations efficiently while encouraging loyalty from employees and improving their talent recruitment and retention outcomes. Another newly created product is BDO Money Manager, designed to help retail clients develop a well-diversified portfolio to reach their long term investment goals. Enhancements are also being carried out to enable customers have full mobile access on BDO UITF (Unit Investment Trust Funds) and PERA (Personal Equity and Retirement Account), with BDO Easy Investment Plan (EIP) capabilities for all UITF products, and a full-service Invest Online functionality for smoother transactions.

These technology-driven initiatives aim to give customers an easy and accessible investment platform which also supports BDO’s sustainability efforts in reducing carbon footprint. While BDO Invest Online and BDO Mobile Banking offer convenience, BDO Trust continues to leverage on BDO’s vast network and reach with more than 1,500 branches nationwide.

“Our clients are at the center of what we do and we consistently find ways to achieve their business goals. I am truly proud of my diligent and persevering team who continues to deliver for the past 5 years and enhance customer journeys,” said Rafael G. Ayuste Jr., Senior Vice President and Head of BDO Trust.

The Asset Triple A Awards recognize companies that have established a comprehensive platform for investing across various asset classes and servicing the needs of institutional, corporate and retail clients. They have consistently shown exceptional performance and set the tone for innovation and industry practice including ESG (environmental, social and governance) integration. The Asset Awards judges use highly stringent criteria which include client feedback, testimonials and information gathered during the review period. Whenever possible, The Asset editorial team also conducts confidential teleconferences and meetings with clients.

Apart from The Asset Awards, BDO Trust has received multiple recognitions internationally from various prestigious publications such as Alpha Southeast Asia Awards, Reader’s Digest Asia, World Finance and Asian Banking & Finance. (PR)

BDO Trust and Investments Group (BDO Trust) wins the Asset Management Award for the 5^th straight year at The Asset Triple A Sustainable Investing Awards.

Micro-businesses in Zamboanga continue to recover despite tough times

7 Nov, 2022, No comments

As the local economy reopens in Zamboanga, many micro and small business owners were provided opportunities to recover their businesses.

For most MSMEs, additional funding is needed to help resume business operations which were momentarily suspended. Lizaruth Morales, a micro-business owner from Saavedra, Zamboanga was one of them.

At the height of the pandemic, the small shop of Morales was affected when the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) was implemented. She struggled to keep her business open given the rising costs of operations.

Financial support for MSMEs

To prevent her business from closing down, Morales sought financial assistance from BDO Network Bank, the community bank of BDO Unibank.

“BDO Network Bank (BDONB) offers the Kabuhayan Loan or MSME Loan that can help small business owners to revive and grow their businesses. Through the funding, they can carry out their plans for their business, helping them fulfill their dreams for their families,” said Karen Cua, BDO Network Bank senior vice president and MSME head.

To date, there are four (4) BDO Network Bank branches and loan offices in Zamboanga, where existing business owners can apply for a loan ranging from Php 30,000 to Php 500,000 with no collateral. The additional fund can be used to increase stock inventory, buy equipment or delivery van, and support other business needs.

BDO Network Bank has also designed affordable payment schemes -- allowing the borrower to choose the most suitable and easy installment payment terms of 12 months to 24 months -- to keep their business going.

Morales is very thankful to its partnership with BDO Network Bank, saying that through the extra funding from the Kabuhayan Loan or MSME Loan, her loading station business was able to recover and grow.

For those who are interested to apply for a Kabuhayan Loan, visit BDO Network Bank website (https://www.bdonetworkbank.com.ph/), go to the nearest BDO Network Bank branch/ loan office in your community, or send a private message to BDO Network Bank’s official facebook page. (https://www.facebook.com/BDONetworkBankPH). (PR)

The small shop of Lizaruth Morales, a micro-business owner from Zamboanga, remained open despite tough times through the help of BDO Network Bank Kabuhayan Loan. (Supplied Photo)

San Miguel Pale Pilsen releases limited edition ‘PLAY PILSEN’ cans

20 Oct, 2022, No comments

San Miguel Pale Pilsen continues to serve exciting bonding experiences for family and friends with its best-tasting brew. Bringing together people from all walks of life, the iconic Filipino beer connects with the current culture and influences local lifestyle.

To further inspire generations of drinkers, San Miguel Pale Pilsen plugs into music to immerse its followers in a vibe. With the release of its limited edition ‘Play Pilsen’ cans, San Miguel Pale Pilsen lets drinkers explore worlds of music tethered on the brand’s distinct taste.

The whole barkada can enjoy three different playlists for different moods: REWIND and take a step back with classic OPM hits; TAMBAY and take it easy with chill/lounge music; and GALAW and show your moves through upbeat dance music.

Getting started on these delightful playlists is easy. 1) Scan the QR Code found on every limited edition “Play Pilsen” cans; 2) Click the link which will lead you to a Facebook post; 3) Click the Spotify® link and head over to your desired playlist; and 4) Listen while enjoying San Miguel Pale Pilsen.

Get the San Miguel Pale Pilsen “Play Pilsen” cans to collect and enjoy or to share as a perfect BEERegalo for the holidays. Order now from select supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores, or through SMB Delivers via 8632-BEER (2337) or www.SMBDelivers.com. (PR)

Cagayan de Oro City grants business tax, real property amnesty

12 Oct, 2022, No comments

By Alwen Saliring

Delinquent real property and business taxpayers including traffic violators can now breathe a sigh of relief after the Cagayan de Oro City Council approved an ordinance that will grant tax amnesty in a form of condonation.

The city's legislative body on Monday, October 10, approved the ordinance that will grant tax relief to delinquent real property and business taxpayers, stall holders in public markets and terminals, and violators of traffic rules and regulations in the form of condonation of their interests, surcharges, penalties and/or arrearages.

City Councilor George Goking, chairman of the committee on ways and means, said mayor Rolando Uy has requested to include market stall holders and traffic violators so they can get back on their feet after they were affected by the pandemic.

"Based on the law we are allowed to give tax relief and condonation ug sa request ni mayor atong gi-ail ang mga stall holders sa merkado ug terminal ug mga traffic violators kay ang problema dili sila kasugod kay gatangag sa violations ang uban moabot og P50,000," Goking said.

"Pasalamat ta kay gi-extend sa presidente ang state of calamity kutob Disyembre so duna gyud tay basis ani,"he added.

The ordinance will take effect 15 days after the approval.

Photo: CEED Facebook

Lock-unlock feature ng BDO Online Banking, isa sa mga sagot sa “senior moment”

12 Oct, 2022, No comments

May mga oras talagang hindi maiwasang mawala ang mga importanteng gamit o makalimutan kung saan ito nakatago. Isa na rito ang ATM o debit card.

Malaking abala kapag nangyari ito lalo na kung may emergency at kailangang mag-withdraw ng cash. Delikado rin kung makuha ng iba ang ATM o debit card at ma-access ang pera sa iyong account.

Payo ng BDO Unibank sa mga bank clients at debit cardholders, i-lock ang BDO Debit Card kapag pansamantalang hindi ito gagamitin upang maprotektahan ito sa mga unauthorized card-based transactions—isa sa mga scams na laganap ngayon. Kung gagamitin na ang ATM o debit card para sa transactions, napakadali lang din nitong i-unlock.

"(The Card Lock setting) protects your BDO Debit Card from unauthorized transactions. If you misplace or lose your debit card, you can lock your card to prevent ATM transactions and in-store and online payments from being processed," ayon sa advisory ng BDO sa website nito. "You can simply unlock your card if you want to use it again."

Ito ang 4 steps para mag-LOCK o UNLOCK ng BDO Debit Card:

Mag-log in gamit ang BDO Online Banking account sa BDO website (bdo.com.ph).
I-click ang Card Security Management sa upper right portion ng home screen.
I-slide ang toggle button ng card na gusto mong i-lock o unlock.
I-click ang Submit at i-enter ang One-Time PIN (OTP).

Maaari ring mag-LOCK o UNLOCK ng BDO Debit Card gamit ang BDO Digital Banking app sa smart phone:

Mag-log in sa BDO Online app.
I-tap ang More > Security Management
I-slide ang toggle button ng card na gusto mong i-lock o unlock.

Dagdag pa ng bangko, walang limit sa pag lock o unlock ng BDO Debit Card. (PR)

Traveling teacher: finding ways to bring learning closer to students

5 Oct, 2022, No comments

Being a teacher is not just about teaching. It's about inspiring, encouraging, and supporting the students. But it's not every day you see a teacher go out of their way to reach out to students and parents.

In a video he uploaded on social media titled “Bridging the Learning Gap”, English teacher Ursus Junatas from Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan captures the challenges and joys of being a public school teacher today, as the world struggles to overcome the effects of the pandemic. In the video, he is seen traveling across four barangays many kilometers apart just to tutor students and personally hand their report cards to them.

Teaching online is not an option for most teachers since majority of students do not have laptops nor smartphones. Instead, Ursus drives his motorcycle so he can visit his students from one barangay to another. This is his way of providing opportunities to those who may have difficulty getting to school due to distance and financial limitations.

“One thing that has always bothered me is how some students fall behind, not because they were not smart enough, but because their parents could not afford school supplies needed in today’s mode of education,” notes Junatas. “As a teacher, it is my job to ensure that students are not forgotten and they feel supported in their education journey.”

Netizens expressed their admiration for the teacher's dedication by commenting on his post and praising him for his heroic actions. Here are some of their comments: “Passion it is,” “English tutor ko ‘to, ang galing!” “Galing mo Sir Ursus Villamil Junatas. Deserve mong parangalan ng ulirang Guro award. Keep up the good work sir! So proud of you. #KMJS”

As the world celebrates National Teacher’s Month from September 5 to October 5, teachers like Sir Ursus are an inspiration for everyone and considered as a backbone of society.

Teachers’ jobs have become more difficult in many ways. The pandemic brought challenges in communicating with students whether online or face-to-face. Many teachers also have families to take care of, aside from their personal needs. They also need financial security through times like this. Just as Ursus finds ways to reach out to his students, BDO Unibank, Inc. through its corporate social responsibility arm, BDO Foundation, continues to find ways to promote financial inclusion through partnerships with different government agencies for the benefit of many stakeholders like him.

Working closely with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, BDO Foundation collaborated with the Department of Education (DepEd) to implement financial education programs for teachers.

These partnerships benefitted public school teaching and non-teaching personnel as well as students by equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and resources to make sound financial decisions through lessons on saving, budgeting, financial planning, debt management, entrepreneurship, investments, insurance, digital literacy, scam prevention, and retirement planning.

DepEd also issued DepEd Order No. 022, Series of 0221, which aims to intensify the integration of financial education in the K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum in various disciplines across grade levels, and ensure that this will be taught nationwide using the materials developed by BDO Foundation. The policy covers all learners, teaching and non-teaching personnel from public and private elementary, junior, and senior high schools, and learning centers for Special Education, Alternative Learning Systems, Indigenous Learning Systems, and the Madrasah Education Program covering Muslim culture, customs, and traditions. (PR)

Globe starts blocking SMS with clickable links to boost fight vs fraudsters

4 Oct, 2022, No comments

Security measure to be enforced until SIM Registration bill and implementing rules enacted

Globe, the leader in mobile, has started temporarily blocking all text messages from Prepaid and Postpaid numbers containing URLs or website links in an unprecedented step against spam and scam messages.

Globe made the announcement amid escalating reports of scam and spam messages, including SMS from unknown numbers that bear customers’ complete names. Initiated this week, this new measure will block the delivery of person-to-person text messages coming from all networks that contain clickable links.

"Before implementing this measure, what we were doing was blocking access to malicious links in text messages to help protect customers. This time around, we're blocking the actual message. If the SMS has a link of any kind, we are not going to deliver it, period. This is necessary to protect our customers,” said Globe Chief Information Security Officer Anton Bonifacio.

The leading digital solutions platform said such SMS blocking will be enforced pending passage and implementation of the SIM Registration Bill, which was ratified by both Houses of Congress on Wednesday, September 28, and is expected to be transmitted to the President for signature.

Globe believes this measure is vital to strengthen the government’s capacity to apprehend cybercriminals and other abusers of digital technology. It will also empower telcos in protecting their systems and customers from fraudulent activity.

“We are taking this measure for the security of our 92 million customers at Globe and 66 million more using GCash as we note how the modus operandi of fraudsters are becoming even more sophisticated. We hope this will make a major dent on various spam and scam SMS rackets,” said Bonifacio.

“This major step reflects our commitment to the country’s economic recovery by ensuring that the accelerated digital adoption does not expose customers to worsening cyberthreats,” he said.

Globe has been working closely with lawmakers towards the crafting and passage of a rational SIM Registration law, providing inputs that aim to ensure the credibility of the system.

These include Globe’s call for an authentic and verifiable source document so telcos can cross-check the authenticity of a SIM holder’s identity, given the prevalence of fake IDs.

Globe also seeks amendment to a provision in the measure requiring telcos to store SIM registration data for 10 years from deactivation. Instead, Globe is proposing that telcos be mandated to instead keep historical data on registered prepaid SIM owners, as they are known to frequently change phone numbers.

It has been bolstering its efforts against scam and spam messages, blocking 784 million scam and spam messages from January to the end of July this year. Through a 24/7 Security Operations Center, Globe also deactivated 14,058 scam-linked mobile numbers and blacklisted 8,973 more within the same period.

Globe has spent $20 million or about P1.1 billion in capital expenditures to date to step up its capabilities in detecting and blocking scam and spam messages of international and domestic sources, including app-to-person and person-to-person SMS. (PR)

BDO Remit waives remittance fees for donations sent to Typhoon Karding victims

4 Oct, 2022, No comments

BDO Unibank—through its remittance arm BDO Remit—is waiving the remittance fees for donations sent to victims of Super Typhoon Karding (international name: Noru) to help accelerate the flow of financial assistance to the affected areas in the country.

Overseas Filipinos may remit their donations free of service fees from September 30 to November 30, 2022 through the following foundations: BDO Foundation, Inc., ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc., GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc., and Philippine Red Cross.

"It is unfortunate that even as Christmas nears, natural calamities are still very much a reality here in the Philippines. Instead of preparing for the holidays, some of us are grieving and picking up the pieces after the onslaught of the super typhoon,” said BDO senior vice president and head of remittance Genie T. Gloria. "With this campaign and the generosity from our Kabayans abroad, BDO Remit hopes it can help alleviate the pain somehow.”

BDO Remit has subsidiary offices in several countries overseas that can accommodate the sending of donations through these foundations. BDO Remit has offices in Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Daly City in the USA, Toronto, Canada, and London, UK. For the complete list of addresses, donors can visit www.bdo.com.ph, go to Remittance Services and click BDO Remit international network.

“Hopefully, with this, we can encourage more donations from our overseas Filipinos to help those adversely affected by Karding,” Gloria added.

Karding ravaged parts of Luzon last September 25 up to early morning the following day, leaving a trail of destruction, including at least 10 dead and almost P2 billon in agricultural damage, in its wake. Almost 40,000 families were also adversely affected by the typhoon, the 11^th tropical cyclone to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility this year. (PR)

SEC ISSUES GUIDELINES ON ARBITRATION OF INTRA-CORPORATE DISPUTES

1 Oct, 2022, No comments

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued the guidelines that will allow corporations to resolve intra-corporate disputes promptly and without going to court through arbitration.

The Commission on September 19 issued SEC Memorandum Circular No. 8, Series of 2022, which provides for the Guidelines on Arbitration of Intra-Corporate Disputes for Corporations.

The guidelines operationalize Section 181 of Republic Act No. 11232, or the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines (RCC), which states that an arbitration agreement may be provided in the articles of incorporation or bylaws of a corporation.

The guidelines provide for the minimum provisions of the arbitration agreement that a corporation may execute, the place of arbitration if not specified in the arbitration agreement, the procedure for the appointment of arbitrators, the composition and powers of the arbitral tribunal, and disclosure requirements, among others.

The guidelines define arbitration as a voluntary dispute resolution process in which one or more arbitrators, appointed by the parties’ designated independent third party or in accordance with the rules, resolve a dispute by rendering an award.

A domestic corporation may provide an arbitration agreement in its articles of incorporation or bylaws, as well as in the form of a separate agreement.

An arbitration agreement must state the number of arbitrators; the designated independent third party who shall appoint the arbitrator/s; procedure for the appointment of the arbitrator/s; and the period within which the arbitrator/s should be appointed by the designated independent third party.

Arbitration agreements that do not comply with such requirements shall be unenforceable, although arbitration shall still proceed under Republic Act No. 9285, or the Alternative Dispute Resolution Act of 2004.

When such an agreement is in place, disputes between the corporation, its stockholders or members, which arise from the implementation of the articles of incorporation and bylaws, or from intra-corporate relations shall be referred to arbitration. However, disputes that involve criminal offenses and interests of third parties shall be excluded from arbitration.

When an intra-corporate dispute is filed with a regional trial court despite the adoption of an arbitration agreement in the corporation’s articles of incorporation, bylaws or in a separate agreement, the court shall act in accordance with the rules of procedure that the Supreme Court may promulgate to implement Section 181 of the RCC.

Unless the arbitration agreement states otherwise, the seat or place of arbitration shall be presumed to be the Philippines, or under the relevant law if the seat or place of arbitration is outside the Philippines.

Prior to arbitration, parties must comply with alternative forms of dispute resolution, such as negotiation or mediation, as prescribed under the agreement.

To proceed with arbitration, a designated independent party shall appoint arbitrators. The SEC may make the appointment should the designated appointing authority fail to appoint the arbitrators as specified in the arbitration agreement.

Arbitrators must be accredited by the Office for Alternative Dispute Resolution (OADR) under the Department of Justice or the Commission, or by organizations accredited by the OADR or the Commission for the purpose of arbitration.

A person who has been approached for his or her possible appointment as an arbitrator shall disclose any circumstances likely to give rise to justifiable doubts as to his or her impartiality or independence to the case. An arbitrator may likewise be challenged should there be doubts to his or her impartiality or independence.

The arbitral tribunal shall have the power to rule on its own jurisdiction and on questions relating to the validity of the arbitration agreement. It shall also have the power to grant the necessary interim measures to ensure enforcement of the award, prevent a miscarriage of justice, or otherwise protect the rights of the parties.

Interim measures may include preliminary injunction directed against a party to arbitration and preliminary attachment against property or garnishment of funds in the custody of a bank or third person, among others.

The final arbitral award under Section 181 of the RCC shall be considered as a commercial arbitration award and shall be executed in accordance with the rules of procedure promulgated by the Supreme Court to implement said provision. (PR)