BDO Unibank, Inc. | Banco De Oro | BDO Philippines

12-29-10 BDO hosts “thriving in a crisis” forum for Cebu clients

BDO Private Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO), has invited veteran international training guru Roger Collantes as its main speaker for its ongoing Wealth Perspective Series forum.

At the recent forum held in Cebu, Collantes, author of the book Beyond Survival: How to Thrive Amidst Life's Inevitable Crisis, challenged the audience to not just survive a crisis be it financial, emotional or health concerns, but also thrive and create possibilities.

“Because after all, there's always an opportunity behind every adversity,” he says, adding, “There are three thrivers rules to live by – don't waste a good crisis; get better not bitter; and thrive not just survive.”

BDO president Nestor V. Tan agreed with Collantes' presentation, saying that “crisis is the new normal and we have to learn to cope with it”.

Meanwhile, BDO Private Bank president Josefina N. Tan said they will regularly conduct this type of forum for their clients as this is an effective investment tool.

11-16-10 IFC rep obtains a seat in the BDO board

THE New York-based financial magazine Global Finance has named Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) as one of the World's Best Foreign Exchange Providers for 2010.

BDO is the runaway winner for the Philippines in the said category, joining 85 others from various countries or regions. Global Finance editors with inputs from industry analysts, corporate executives and technology experts, handled the selection process for the best currency trading providers.

“Sovereign debt problems in Europe, China's monetary tightening and the Federal Reserve's quantitative easing are causing volatility in the foreign exchange markets. Corporations around the world need to select a strong, knowledgeable FX bank to help them cope with the turbulence in the markets,” says Global Finance publisher and president Joseph D. Giarraputo in a statement.

The complete list of awardees will be published in the January 2011 issue of Global Finance.

This award affirmed the commitment of BDO to find ways to better serve the banking requirements of its valued customers.

11-15-10 MPIC taps BDO Trust as retirement fund trustee

PUBLICLY traded infrastructure firm Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) has chosen BDO Trust and Investments as its Trustee and Investment Manager of the recently established MPIC Defined Contribution Retirement Fund.

The signing of the retirement trust agreement between the parties was held recently at the BDO Corporate Center's Anvil Amorsolo Room. Present during the signing were (from left) MPIC VP-legal Atty. Jose Jesus Laurel, MPIC VP-human resources Robin Velasco, MPIC CFO David Nicol, Banco De Oro (BDO) trust and investments group (TIG) head Ador Abrogena, BDO TIG CIO Marvin Fausto and BDO TIG SVP Noel Andrada.

11-10-10 BDO’s 9M10 net earnings grow 58 percent to P6.4 billion

Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) continued to post solid results by recording a net income of P6.4 billion in the first nine months of 2010. This is higher by 58 percent compared to the P4 billion earnings for the comparable period in 2009, and is mainly attributed to sustained growth in business volumes amid a tempered hike in operating expenses.

Net interest income rose 14 percent to P25.4 billion in the first nine months of 2010 due to a larger level of earning assets and lower funding costs. Gross customer loans expanded by 18 percent to P500.7 billion arising from broad-based demand from various sectors. Total deposits grew 10 percent to P710.9 billion, driven by robust growth in low-cost deposits generated from an expanded branch network.

Non-interest income increased by 17 percent to P13.1 billion on the back of steady growth in fee-based service income and a 39 percent rise in trading and foreign exchange gains. The Bank continued its conservative provisioning policy, boosting provisions by 13 percent to P5.1 billion leading to an improved non-performing loan coverage of 90 percent from 82 percent in the prior quarter. Return on Equity (ROE) moved up to 11.2 percent in the first nine months of 2010 compared to 8.8 percent in the first nine months of 2009. Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) remained robust at 14.2 percent due to profitable operations and the US$250 million in fresh capital raised in April.

Following its solid performance during the interim period, the Bank is on track to attain its net income goal of P8.1 billion for the full year of 2010.

About BDO

BDO is the Philippines’ largest universal bank with market-leading positions in most business lines. The Bank offers a complete array of products and services catering to the retail and corporate markets including lending (corporate, commercial, and consumer), deposit-taking, foreign exchange, brokering, trust and investments, credit cards, cash management and remittances. Through its subsidiaries, the Bank also offers leasing and financing, investment banking, private banking, bancassurance, insurance brokerage and stock brokerage services.

10-27-10 BDO vows continued support to SMEs

BANCO De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) has once again proven its unwavering support to SME (small and medium enterprises) clients as it completed another successful forum recently held in Cebu City.

Similar to what it has done in the four previous forums in Batangas, Cavite, Cabanatuan and Davao, the Cebu assembly, attended by more than 500 clients, featured an entrepreneurship expert, one of Cebu's most successful businessmen and resource speakers from BDO.

Entrepreneurship guru Prof. Andy Ferreria gave helpful tips on running a business while Dr. Rico Gandionco, chief executive of Cebu Primera Food Industries, shared their family's success story on Julie's Bakeshop. During his talk, Dr. Gandionco, an orthopedic surgeon by profession, shared this advice: “You got to have passion for the business. If not at the start, you must at least learn to love an important aspect of it and loving it whole will be a natural consequence. Bring God into your business and the workplace. Pay attention to details.”

From the Bank, FVP and chief market strategist Jonathan Ravelas discussed the current state of the economy and outlook for the near-term; SEVP for institutional banking Walter Wassmer familiarized the clients of the Bank's wide-ranging loan products; SVP for transaction banking group Jaime Nasol acquainted the audience with cash management, including collection and disbursement tools specifically for SMEs; while BDO Leasing and Finance president Roberto Lapid presented leasing opportunities accessible to clients.

BDO president Nestor V. Tan, who led the question and answer part, said doing the “Grow Your Business with BDO” forum in key areas around the country, is the bank's way of reaching out to small businesses.

“BDO grew as a result of helping businesses like you. No business is too small for the Bank,” he added.

Shown in photo are the key officers of BDO led by its president Nestor V. Tan (left most) responding to questions fielded by the attendees of the “Grow Your Business with BDO” SME forum. With him are executives Jonathan Ravelas, Roberto Lapid, Jaime Nasol and Walter Wassmer. Entrepreneurship guru Andy Ferreria also participated in the Q&A.

10-26-10 BDO Remittance widens accessibility in Europe

BANCO De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO), through its remittance service arm BDO Remit, will further raise its accessibility to Filipinos working and residing in Europe following the opening of CBN Grupo's eighth branch in Vienna, Austria.

The new branch is located at Wallnerstrasse 2/5A, Stiege 1, 1010 Wien.

CBN is among the reliable remittance partners of BDO in Europe. Their strategic partnership, which started in 2004, allowed both companies to expand their presence in Europe, serving more Filipinos in the continent.

BDO was recently recognized as the Top Commercial Bank on Overseas Filipinos Remittances for 2009 by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Shown in photo are (from left) BDO Remittance-International Operations Marketing Officer for Northern Europe Rolin P. Morcillo, Phil. Consul-General to Austria Charlie Manangan, CBN London Director Thiruparan Thuraisingam, RP Ambassador to Austria Lourdes Yparraguirre, CBN Grupo Director Nelia Locsin, and a valued client during the opening of CBN Vienna Branch last September 25.

10-12-10 IFC rep obtains a seat in the BDO board

THE IFC (International Finance Corp.), the private sector investment arm of the World Bank, has secured a seat in the board of Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) effective Sept. 25, 2010.

Subject to confirmation by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), BDO said IFC representative Farida Khambata has been elected a director of its board. Ms. Khambata is currently a partner of Cartica Capital and provides management consulting services to Cartica Management,focusing mainly on global investment strategy. Before joining Cartica, she was IFC's regional vice president heading IFC's operations in East Asia and the Pacific, South Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Middle East and North Africa, where she was responsible for the corporation's strategy, financial products, and advisory services in member countries of these regions. She holds post-graduate degrees in Economics and Business Management from Cambridge University and the London Business School.

Christopher A. Bell-Knight, who has been with BDO for a number of years and has a reputable knowledge in the banking sector, was named an adviser to the board.

10-11-10 BDO Private Bank wins another one from The Asset

FOR the second year in a row, BDO Private Bank was named the Best Private Bank in the Philippines by The Asset magazine's Annual Triple A Investment Awards 2010.

BDO Private Bank, a subsidiary of Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc., is the only domestic bank in the Philippines providing expert and professional private banking services. It is solely focused on giving comprehensive wealth management services to the country's high net worth and modern affluent markets.

BDO Private Bank, which falls under the Wealth Management category, was cited on its broad-based wealth management franchise; an interesting array of investment products; and strong support to clients in managing their wealth.

The Asset Triple A Investment Awards is Asia's defining recognition for excellence in the industry. The awards process adopted a rigorous approach to the selection of the best banks and institutions in each category. Point scores for both quantitative and qualitative factors were combined in the determination of the winners.

The Asset is the leading finance publication for Asian corporates and global investors active in the region, and is internationally recognized for providing both analysis and insight into the best practice and strategies of Asia's financial decision makers.

09-30-10 Wells Fargo is the new remittance partner of BDO

THE San Francisco-based Wells Fargo & Company has tapped Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) as its newest remittance network member.

Wells Fargo is known for its ExpressSend money transfer service while BDO has BDO Remit as its remittance service brand.

With the team-up, Wells Fargo account holders can now send remittances to beneficiaries in the Philippines through a Credit to BDO account (in pesos) or via Cash Pick up Anywhere at BDO's nearly 2,700 remittance pick up locations all over the Philippines.

If the sender chooses to credit the amount to a BDO account, the money will be credited within one hour or less and the recipient can already withdraw the remittance using the BDO ATM debit card at over 7,000 BDO, Megalink, Expressnet and Bancnet ATMs nationwide, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Beneficiaries also have the option to pick up the remittance at any BDO payout locations which include the BDO branches, YES Currency Exchange (formerly SM Forex Counter), SM Business Services, Global Pinoy Center, Savemore and Rural Bank partners all over the Philippines.

"BDO is the country's top remittance bank and Wells Fargo is likewise a very solid player in this arena. We certainly formed a formidable partnership, one that is designed to benefit our clients with even faster, secured and reliable service," said Jonathan Diokno, Senior Vice President and Head for BDO Remittance International Operations.

For his part, Wells Fargo's Global Remittance Services Executive Vice President Daniel Ayala says, "We understand how important remittances are to the Philippines. By helping our Filipino customers reach more locations throughout the country, we hope we can help them stimulate the economy of their homeland by supporting their family and friends."

"Wells Fargo's strong reputation in the banking industry conveys a fast and secured way of sending money to the Philippines. Its network concentrates on community based financial services, which can tap more Filipinos and Americans alike in using their facilities when sending money. Through Wells Fargo's strength, diversity and nationwide coverage, our target is to push the remittance business from states that have significant Filipino population down to the smaller Filipino communities in the US," Diokno said.

Wells Fargo took the 19th spot on Fortune 2009 rankings of America's largest corporations. Since its merger with Wachovia bank, it now has more than 10,000 banking stores, 12,000 Wells Fargo and Wachovia ATMs, and the Internet (wellsfargo.com and wachovia.com) across North America and internationally. Wells Fargo serves one in three households in America. With its wide network coverage, Filipinos can send remittances over the counter, online banking and even phone banking.

BDO, meanwhile, was recently recognized as the Top Commercial Bank on Overseas Filipinos Remittances for 2009 by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The Bank, which bagged the same award in the previous year, attributed its solid performance on its strong market presence and steady expansion of remittance partners worldwide. Constant efforts to strengthen its international presence have resulted to established connections with thousands of combined remittance offices, partners and agent locations in Asia, Middle East, North America and Europe allowing to serve more Filipinos globally.

09-20-10 BDO Private Bank bags award from FinanceAsia

ASIA'S leading financial magazine FinanceAsia has once again named BDO Private Bank as the Philippines' Best Private Bank in this year's FinanceAsia Country Awards.

BDO Private Bank, which won the said award for the third time, was cited for the strong growth it posted despite the global financial crisis.

"It has roughly 4,500 individual customers with an average portfolio of around Php25 million which translates to a total of Php114 billion (US$2.45 billion) under management. As recently as 2003, the bank had just Php7 billion under management. At the start of 2009, that figure had grown 10-fold to Php72 billion and rose another 50% in 2009 alone,"FinanceAsia noted.

A fully owned subsidiary of Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO), BDO Private Bank is the only domestic bank in the Philippines providing expert and professional private banking services. It is solely focused on giving comprehensive wealth management services to the country's high net worth and modern affluent markets.

"All of us at BDO Private Bank are challenged to continually innovate and look for better ways to serve and meet clients' dynamic needs. We are at the forefront of an exploding business segment, the tremendous growth in the emerging wealthy and affluent markets demand a specialized and focused banking service," said its president Josefina N. Tan.

09-09-10 Belgian firm taps BDO for payroll, check pick-up services

BELGIAN company Puratos, a maker of ingredients for the bakery, patisserie and chocolate sectors, has tapped Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) for its collection and disbursement requirements.

BDO, through its cash management service, will provide Puratos' Philippine office the centralized check pick-up facility, integrated disbursement solution, and payroll. All these make use of BDO's Corporate Internet Banking platform which will increase Puratos' efficiency and boost their productivity.

Shown in photo during the signing of the agreement are, from left, Michelle Tangonan, Puratos S.E. Asia Region business controller / finance & admin; Bernard Poplimont, Puratos president; Jaime Nasol, BDO SVP for cash management; and Artie Villaraza, BDO EVP for wholesale lending and international desks.

09-01-10 BDO seals easy payment service deal with San Sebastian

BANCO De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO), through its transaction banking group (TBG), is now providing San Sebastian University access to its payment collection system wherein all students and parents can conveniently pay their tuition via more than 700 BDO branches nationwide; 1,300 automated teller machines; internet banking, phone banking; and credit or debit cards at the San Sebastian cashier.

For parents working abroad, payments through the many overseas remittance partners of BDO would soon be available.

The Bank's service allows more options which give convenience to both companies and its payees.

Shown in photo during the recent signing of the agreement were, standing from left, Ceres Alcantara, San Sebastain accounting manager; Dolly Magsalin, BDO VP and Manila1 area head; Annie H. Ngo, BDO SVP region 3 head; Julie Bernabe, BDO manager of C.M. Recto-San Sebastian branch; John Paul Dalipe, BDO cash management services account manager; Melissa Tong, BDO AVP for cash management services; and Precy Kalalo, San Sebastian internal auditor. Seated from left were Fr. Leonardo Paulige (Order of Augustinian Recollects), San Sebastian VP for admin; Fr. Anthony Morillo (OAR), San Sebastian president; Ismael Estela Jr., BDO SVP and TBG head; and Jaime Nasol, BDO SVP and head of cash management and electronic banking services.

08-17-10 Asiamoney awards BDO anew

ASIAMONEY, the leading monthly capital markets magazine in the region, has once again recognized Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) in this year's Asiamoney Best Banks Awards.

The Bank's wholly-owned subsidiary, BDO Capital & Investment Corp., was awarded for the fourth time the Philippines' Best Domestic Equity House as "it stands out in terms of its visibility, and its affiliation with its parent effectively makes it a one-stop shop investment house".

BDO Capital also bagged the Best Domestic Debt House in the Philippines award for completing over the past 12 months nine debt capital market deals worth $1.35 billion. This is the fifth time the company won the said accolade.

"BDO's various teams continue to work closely to bring to clients solutions to their needs. These awards affirm our success at satisfying our customers as they remain our priority," said BDO Capital president Eduardo V. Francisco.

Asiamoney said BDO and the other winners in Asia are the "institutions which did the best job" under a volatile business condition over the past year.

08-09-10 BDO taps DMI solution from Infomax and ASG

BANCO De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) has tapped the document management and imaging solution of ASG Software Solutions and Infomax Systems Solutions and Services, Inc. as part of the Bank's continued effort to enhance its operational efficiency.

The solution, called ASG ViewDirect & DocumentDirect Content Management System, now being accessed by BDO Head Office Units and all its over 700 branches nationwide to view and retrieve documents that covered some major business and operational processes of the bank.

A ceremonial signing among the parties was done recently. Shown in photo were, from left, Infomax sales leader- banking team Armi A. Luz, Infomax president and general manager Joseph C. Goyanko, Jr., ASG president and chief executive Arthur L. Allen, BDO executive vice president and head of central operations group Dennis B. Velasquez, BDO senior vice president and head of IT operations group Arthur L. Tan and BDO first vice president of procurement and supply management Aurea Imelda S. Montejo.

08-05-10 BDO is RP's top bank – The Banker

UK-BASED publication The Banker has ranked Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) as the Philippines' top bank for 2010.

Worldwide, BDO placed 396th in The Banker's Top 1000 World Banks ranking, a survey conducted annually by one of the world's premier banking and finance magazines. BDO climbed 40 notches from its previous world ranking of 436th.

The rankings are based on the definition of Tier 1 capital as prescribed by Basel's Bank for International Settlements (BIS). “The object of the survey is to show the bank's soundness in relation to the Basel requirement of a minimum ratio of Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets of 4 percent and a minimum ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets of 8 percent,” according to The Banker.

BDO, which industry-leading corporate, retail, investment banking and insurance services, is a recipient of various accolades from both local and international award-giving bodies, including Euromoney, FinanceAsia, Asiamoney and Wall Street Journal.

08-03-10 BDO 1H10 net income up 94 percent to P4.1 billion

Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. sustained its growth momentum by posting a net income of P4.1 billion in the first half of 2010, up 94 percent year-on-year from the P2.1 billion earnings recorded in the first half of 2009. This stems from the continued growth in operating income and the judicious management of operating costs.

Net interest income grew 17 percent to P16.7 billion, driven by the 19 percent expansion in gross customer loans to P491.5 billion. Total deposits increased 11 percent to P693.3 billion, as low-cost deposits maintained its upward trend. As a result, net interest margin widened to 4.25 percent in the first half of 2010 from 3.97 percent in the first half of 2009.

Fee-based service activities and treasury income complemented the Bank’s lending and deposit-taking business. Fee-based service income rose 14 percent to P5.2 billion, with contributions from transaction banking, remittance, investment banking, trust, private banking, insurance and credit cards. The Bank was able to capitalize on trading opportunities in the first semester, resulting in trading and foreign exchange gains of P2.6 billion, up 35 percent from the comparable period last year.

Operating expenses had a moderate increase of 7 percent to P17 billion due to larger business volumes and the opening of additional branch sites. The Bank prudently set aside provisions of P3.3 billion leading to a non-performing loan coverage ratio of 82 percent.

Return on Equity (ROE) advanced to 11.1 percent in the first half of 2010 compared to 7.2 percent in the first half of 2009. Retained earnings coupled with a US$250 million capital raising program completed in April boosted Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) to 14.3 percent from 12.8 percent as of March 2010.

With its good performance across all business lines, the Bank is on track to meet its net income target of P8.1 billion for the full year of 2010.

07-29-10 BDO rolls out handy cash management package

BANCO De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) is making its cash management service more accessible and convenient for micro businesses and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through a bundled product consisting of payroll, check disburse and corporate internet banking.

For just maintaining an account average daily balance (ADB) of at least P500,000, business owners can avail of the three products, which are the basic needs for smooth and efficient cash flow operations.

"All the entrepreneurs have to do is open a peso or checking account and maintain an ADB of at least half a million pesos. We will also ask them to accomplish a data sheet, sign the memorandum of agreement and submit either a board resolution or secretary's certificate," said Edgardo Marcelo Jr., BDO's vice president for cash management services.

The payroll product – regular savings account or cash card – enables the enterprise to prepare its payroll automatically, which BDO can deliver in a safer and more convenient manner.

The check disburse, on the other hand, allows the business to prepare, manage and print large volumes of checks for quick and easy disbursement.

Meanwhile, corporate internet banking provides instant access to the businesses' funds via online banking transactions in the comforts of one's office. These transactions include checking of account balances, uploading of payroll, transfer of funds to a third-party account, payment of bills and settlement of SSS and BIR fees online.

The cash management and electronic banking unit of BDO has been recognized as the Best Cash Management services in the Philippines by Asian financial institutions and publications.

07-09-10 BDO is 2009's top remittance bank

FOR the second straight year, Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) was named the Top Commercial Bank on Overseas Filipinos Remittances for 2009 by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

BDO, which bagged the same award in 2008, attributed its solid performance on its strong market presence and steady expansion of remittance partners worldwide. Constant efforts to strengthen its international presence have resulted to established connections with thousands of combined remittance offices, partners and agent locations in Asia, Middle East, North America and Europe allowing to serve more Filipinos globally.

There is also the continuous expansion of cash pick-up channels all over the Philippines, which to date, number to more than 2,400. These include the over 700 BDO branches; 120 SM pick-up locations (YES Currency Exchange Counters in SM Department Stores, SM Business Services, Global Pinoy Centers, Savemore and Makro); 1,200 locations of financial services partners; and nearly 390 branches of rural bank partners.

"The Bank's objective is well-defined. We will continuously search for ways to make remittances more secure, convenient and accessible for our clients by improving our existing channels and pursuing new means to address the growing requirements of the OFWs," said its president Nestor V. Tan.

He added, "We would not have achieved this [honor] if not for the help of all our remittance partners. They are winners of this award as well."

At the end of 2009, total remittances from overseas Filipinos reached US$17.3 billion as remittances from sea-based and land-based workers rose by 12.1 percent and 4.2 percent, respectively. Major sources of remittances were the US, Canada, Saudi Arabia, UK, Japan, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, Italy and Germany.

For this year, the BSP forecast remittances to grow by 8 percent from an earlier estimate of 6 percent.

Shown in photo is Tan (center) holding the trophy presented by BSP Gov. Amando Tetangco Jr. (right) and Monetary Board Member Nelly Favis-Villafuerte (left) during the recently held awards ceremony and appreciation lunch for BSP stakeholders.

06-24-10 BDO tops FinanceAsia Country Awards 2010 for RP

HONG KONG-based publication FinanceAsia has cited Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) as the Best Bank in the Philippines for 2010 in its annual Country Awards.

BDO is also a recipient of the Best Foreign Exchange Bank award while subsidiary BDO Capital is bestowed the Best Investment Bank, Best Equity House and Best Bond House awards.

The formal awarding will be held in Hong Kong on September 1, according to the Asia's leading financial publishing company. Meanwhile, the complete list of the awardees will be featured in the July issue of FinanceAsia magazine.

The Bank, over the years, has been consistently recognized by various international finance and investment institutions and publications, for its market leadership.

As a full-service universal bank, BDO has the ability to provide industry-leading corporate, retail, investment banking and insurance services. It maintains its strategic focus on its principal markets, notably the corporate market, the middle-market banking segment – consisting of mid-sized corporations and small and medium-sized enterprises – and the retail/consumer market. The Bank also has the expertise in asset management, leasing and finance, remittances, bancassurance, credit cards, and corporate cash management.

06-21-10 BDO forum for SMEs, a success in Davao

Banco de Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) successfully wrapped up its recent SME forum in Davao, the latest in its "Grow Your Business with BDO" learning series for entrepreneurs.

The forum, which was attended by over 100 valued clients of the Bank, featured as its key speaker Prof. Alejandrino Ferreria, a noted entrepreneur and academician from the Ateneo de Manila University - Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (ACE), who tackled the topic entrepreneurial finance and fiscal management for SMEs.

Other speakers included BDO chief market strategist Jonathan Ravelas, who discussed the state and condition of the Philippine economy; BDO senior executive vice president for institutional banking group (IBG) Walter C. Wassmer and Gerard Lee Co, BDO executive vice president for IBG commercial banking and head, Visayas and Mindanao, both of whom discussed growth opportunities with BDO; and Jaime M. Nasol, senior vice president for BDO's transaction banking group-cash management and e-banking, who talked about the various products of the Bank which can help a business maximize productivity and enhance efficiency.

BDO's Davao-based client Efren Marquez, president and chief executive of Kupler DCMC Philippines Corp., a trading and marketing firm of various industrial products, also made a testimony on how the Bank has helped him in his pursuit to expand his business. "The relationship has made them [BDO] understand my business better while I was able to learn the intricacies of finance and economics from my dealings with them and have also earned other income from some of their product offers. I know I was right in choosing a big bank like BDO, as it complemented the requirements expected of me by my foreign suppliers," he commented.

BDO president Nestor V. Tan, who led the panel in the question and answer part, said conducting forums in key areas in the Philippines, is the Bank's way of reaching out to small businesses. "BDO grew as a result of helping businesses like you. No business is too small for the Bank," he told the participants.

The photo shows (from left) Mssrs. Nasol, Ravelas, Tan, Ferreria and Wassmer answering questions from the audience..

06-01-10 BDO Leasing posts growth in 2009; sees good prospects in 2010

BDO Leasing intensified its marketing efforts in 2009 and with the support of its parent bank, BDO Unibank, grew its net loan portfolio by 19% to P9.1 billion from P7.7 billion in 2008 while total assets ballooned by 25% to P13.1 billion in 2009 from P10.4 billion the previous year.

Total revenues, likewise, posted a significant increase from P1.4 Billion in 2008 to P2.2 Billion in 2009, or a 61% increase mainly coming from rental revenues.

It took a conservative stance vis-a-vis the economic environment, taking into consideration the effects of typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng by increasing its loan loss provisioning. It, likewise, effected a one-off adjustment in depreciation for its assets in its wholly owned subsidiary, BDO Rental. Despite these adjustments, coupled with the thinning of margins due to competition, the company still managed to post a respectable 2009 net income of P300 million.

The steady performance allowed BDO Leasing to declare cash dividends to shareholders in July and December amounting to P432 Million or P0.20 per share. This is the highest dividend payout made by your company from the time it became publicly traded in 1997.

Meanwhile, to support earning asset growth, BDOLF secured an approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to raise its Short-Term Commercial Paper (STCP) license from P4 Billion to P8 Billion. The STCP issue was given a high rating of "PRS 2 minus" by Philippine Rating Services Corporation (PhilRatings) based on "BDO Leasing's solid market position, sound capital base and the continuing benefits derived from its synergy with the parent company, BDO, as well as the relatively positive prospects for the local leasing and financing industry".

With BDO as its parent firm, thus resulting in synergy, BDOLF continued to perform well in 2010 as the net loan portfolio further grew to P9.8 billion at the end of the first quarter.

Given the overall business confidence index in an upbeat trend, as published by BSP in its 1Q2010 Business Expectation Survey, BDO Leasing is optimistic in its growth, while also prepared for possible economic challenges ahead.

05-25-10 BDO Rewards Easy Asenso Winners

Two mothers were the lucky winners of Banco De Oro's (BDO) Easy Asenso, Instant Panalo Raffle Promo first quarterly draw held simultaneously in SM Megamall and SM Mandurriao (Iloilo) on March 15.

Naima Ali Abas, an OFW in Dubai, and Jocelyn Galvan Maluto, a remittance beneficiary, won P10,000 worth of grocery items.

With Easy Asenso, Instant Panalo Raffle Promo, customers availing of BDO's Kabayan Savings Account, a remittance account for OFWs and their beneficiaries, have the chance to win, apart from grocery items, P40,000 worth of Home Appliance shopping, and a brand new Nissan Sentra 1.3 GX M/T in the grand draw.

Shown in photo were, rom left, Geneva T. Gloria, vice president and head of BDO Remittance domestic operations; Liwanag Reginio, store manager, SM Supermarket Megamall; Priscilla de Villa, branch head, BDO SM Megamall B branch; Naima Ali Abas, Easy Asenso, Instant Panalo 1st quarterly draw-grocery shopping spree winner; Jan Stephen Martinez, product development officer, BDO Remittance domestic operations; Albert Teng, marketing officer, BDO P.Faura-A. Mabini branch.

05-25-10 BDO provides bills payment service to AdU

Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO), through the cash management group, has recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with Adamson University (AdU) to provide bills pay service, a system that will pave way for reliable and easy tuition payment.

With the system in place, AdU students and parents can pay tuition through all BDO branches nationwide; remittance partners and agents worldwide (for OFW parents); internet banking at http://www.mybdo.com.ph; and, the use of credit or debit card in the university cashier, where a point of sale (POS) terminal is installed.

Shown in photo at the MoA signing were, seated from left, Fr. Max Rendon, AdU vice president for finance; Fr. Greg Banaag, AdU president; Jaime Nasol, BDO senior vice president for transaction banking; Edgardo Marcelo Jr, BDO vice president for transaction banking. Standing from left were Melissa Tong, BDO assitant vice president for transaction banking; John Paul Dalipe, BDO account manager for cash management services; Dolly Magsalin, BDO vice president/area head for Manila 1; Dyke Esguerra, BDO senior manager/branch head UN Avenue-Philamlife branch; Aleli Barrios, AdU controller; and Malou Escanilla, AdU administrator; and Fely Francisco, AdU financial assistant.

05-17-10 BDO levels it up; launches mobile internet banking

Banco De Oro (BDO) has launched another convenient way of banking on the go – the BDO Mobile Internet Banking (MIB). Through BDO MIB, account holders can rapidly and easily do credit card payments, utility and other bills and reload prepaid phones using their mobile phones with web browsers. Likewise, BDO MIB users can see their deposits and loan account balances, transfer funds and even change their internet banking password anytime and anywhere.

"We don't always have our laptop or PC anytime we need to access our account, but the one device we rarely forget is our mobile phones. BDO powers up internet banking by making available MIB. So, now, wherever you are, your bank is always within your reach, making it even more convenient through MIB," said Ken Tiambeng, senior assistant vice president of the Bank's transaction banking group.

To access BDO MIB, simply type https://m.mybdo.com.ph/ in your mobile phone's web browser. MIB is accessible to all telecommunications network (SMART, GLOBE, SUN) for as long as the mobile device used is equipped with mobile web browsing capability. It can be used in any area with WiFi or telco Internet access. For more information, please contact the BDO Customer Contact Center through (+632) 631-8000 or callcenter@bdo.com.ph.

05-14-10 BDO and SM partner with the gov't in nationwide job fair

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) together with partners in the private sector successfully held Jobs Live! 2010, a nationwide job and livelihood fair in celebration of Labor Day on May 1.

The event, themed Manggagawang Pilipino, Kaagapay sa Pagbabago, was simultaneously held in Metro Manila and across the other 15 regions in the country.

Banco De Oro (BDO) and the SM Group were among the major sponsors of this year's DOLE event, along with Globe Telecom, STI, Social Security System, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Pag-IBIG Fund, Asia Brewery, Inc., and Vibal Publishing.

Jobs Live! lured in around 150 employers in the NCR, offering some 80,000 job vacancies abroad and 30,000 opportunities for local employment.

Shown in photo during the jobs fair ribbon cutting at SMX Convention Center were, from left, lawyer Allan Montano, president, Federation of Free Workers; Willy Pulla, secretary-general, Alliance of Filipino Workers; lawyer Alex Villaviza, Trade Union Congress of the Philippines; Undersecretary Lourdes Trasmonte, chairperson DOLE Labor Day Committee; DOLE Secretary Marianito D. Roque; Alan Supnet, Globe Telecom representative; BDO chairperson Teresita T. Sy; and lawyer Francis Chua, Outlook Point Foundation.

04-29-10 Build up your wealth; invest in trust products

As part of its continued drive to encourage people to move beyond just saving their money but also to begin investing, Banco De Oro has launched the I Invest Ad series, specifically talking about how the Bank can help achieve one's financial goals through proper investment management.

“BDO has always been very active in educating Filipinos about the value of investing. Through the I Invest campaign, we want to show our "kababayans" that they have the power to realize their plans in life -- whether this is to see their children finish college, to continue their current lifestyle when they retire or to simply enjoy life -- by becoming investors - the earlier, the better," said Ador A. Abrogena, executive vice president and head of BDO Trust and Investments Group (BDO TIG).

BDO has consolidated trust assets of P457 billion, the largest in the industry and accounting for 25% market share as of year-end 2009. BDO TIG offers a wide range of trust and investment products, including pooled funds like the Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITFs) that offer a way for investors with similar objectives to obtain the benefits of diversification and ease of investing / redemption and the more customized portfolios for those who prefer to invest in securities of their own selection. It also provides investment management and trust administration for clients with specialized needs.

“Our mission is to provide investment opportunities for everyone because we believe that saving money is only the first step. If you want to really grow your wealth to meet or sustain future dreams you must invest in a way that will maximize the returns of your hard-earned funds at the level of risk you are comfortable with. We provide this opportunity through our trust and investment products in a way that is easy to understand and convenient for everyone. And because we have the scale and volume of business, we even make it more cost effective for everyone," explained Abrogena.

To learn more about how BDO can help you attain your goals, contact BDO TIG through investments@bdo.com.ph, (632) 878-4299/4224 (Metro Manila), (6332) 231-1131 (Cebu) or (6382) 221-8959 (Davao).

04-27-10 BDO doubles net income to P2 billion in 1Q10

Banco De Oro Unibank Inc. solidified its gains in the first quarter of 2010 with net income doubling to P2.06 billion from P1 billion in the first quarter of 2009. This is attributed to the sustained growth in operating income.

Net interest income was up 19% to P8.3 billion as net interest margins improved to 4.3% from 3.9% in 2009. The customer loan portfolio expanded 18% year-on-year to P469.1 billion while low-cost deposits sustained their growth, resulting in lower funding costs. Fee-based service income grew 17% to P2.5 billion. The Bank continues to derive bulk of its operating income from core lending and deposit-taking business and fee-based service activities, leading to a smaller contribution from volatile trading and foreign exchange gains.

Operating costs increased at a slower 5% pace to P8.5 billion. The Bank’s organization has stabilized and major capital expenditures required to upgrade and properly scale its IT and operating infrastructure have now been completed.

Asset quality remained stable, but the Bank continued to be prudent by setting aside provisions of P1.6 billion to improve the non-performing loan coverage ratio to 84%.

04-26-10 BDO launches Dream Shopping Promo in Davao

Banco De Oro (BDO) recently launched its Dream Shopping Promo in its 19 participating branches in Davao, giving clients who open a BDO savings or checking account (in peso or dollar denomination) a chance to win as much as P100,000 worth of SM gift certificates in the grand raffle draw.

One raffle coupon is earned when opening a savings or checking account worth P10,000 to P20,000; five coupons for P20,001 to P50,000; 10 coupons for P50,001 to P150,000; and 15 coupons for P150,001 and higher. The promo started on March and runs until May 31, 2010.

There will be one winner per branch for each of the monthly draw set on April 17 and May 15.Each of them will win P2,500 worth of SM Gift Certificates. For the grand raffle draw on June 19, there will be five winners of P10,000 worth of SM gift certificates (3rd prize); three winners of P50,000 worth of SM gift certicates (2nd prize) and one winner of P100,000 worth of gift certificates (1st prize). Meanwhile, two winners per branch will each win a consolation prize of P5,000 worth of SM gift certificates.

04-26-10 BDO supports BPAP

Banco de Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) has supported this year's 1st general membership meeting of the Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPAP), the umbrella organization for the fastest-growing offshoring and outsourcing industry in the country.

BPAP has invited Jaime M. Nasol, senior vice president for BDO's transaction banking group (TBG), to do a presentation of the Bank's products and services which can benefit BPO companies and its employees. Nasol cited the importance of having an efficient payroll service, through electronic banking, which are useful to call center agents who have unusual work schedules.

BPAP serves as the one-stop information and advocacy gateway for the country's key offshoring and outsourcing services sector and has over 200 company-members, including five association members.

Shown in photo is Jaime M. Nasol speaking before the members of BPAP.

04-23-10 Loyal BDO client wins brand new CR-V

LOYAL Banco De Oro client Rowena Ontangco took home a brand new 2010 Honda CR-V by just joining the recently concluded BDO Rewards Text Raffle Promo.

The winner was accompanied by her husband and son at Honda Cars Pasig to receive her prize. With their new car, the family plans to go on a summer adventure and visit their relatives in the province.

A holder of BDO Rewards Emerald Card, Ontangco has been a true-blue BDO client even before she got married, clearly a strong testament to her solid banking relationship with BDO. Apart from her Savings Account, she has also availed of BDOfs Money Market Fund and Insurance products.

Ontangco said winning the CR-V from BDO Rewards has inspired her to maximize her point-earning potential. She plans to do this by increasing her business relationship with BDO and exploring other products eligible for point-earning in BDO Rewards. She has also become a loyal SM shopper and her immediate goal is to work her way up the higher membership levels -- Ruby, Sapphire or Diamond – so she can enjoy more perks and privileges from BDO Rewards.

Present during the awarding were (from left) Emmanuel Antonio Gomez, Pasig/Taguig area head; Geronimo D. Diaz, Southern Luzon region head; Rosola A. Vivas BDO Rewards head; Perfecto Ramos BDO Pasig-Kapasigan branch head; Rowena S. Ontangco Honda CR-V winner with husband Jay and son Nathaniel; Alma Vera Cruz and Cherry Francia of BDO Rewards Marketing.

04-23-10 BDO Rewards member gets unforgettable bday gift

Banco De Oro gave one of its valued clients a memorable birthday gift when it awarded her a brandnew Toyota Vios 1.5G for winning in the BDO Rewards Text Raffle Promo.

Cleofe Belarga, who has been banking with BDO for 14 years now, said having a new car will allow her to continuously do her favorite past-time, which is going on out-of-town trips with friends.

Belarga admits she really takes time to read flyers when she's in the branch and the direct mailers she receives. This enables her to know where and how to use her BDO Rewards card. Oftentimes, she uses her card during grocery shopping or buying appliances. She also tried to use her earned BDO Rewards points to pay for items at SM.

Present during the awarding of the prize were (from left): Annie H. Ngo, Metro Manila West Region head; Mercedita Nablo BDO Roxas Blvd.-R. Salas branch head; Rosola A. Vivas, BDO Rewards head, Cleofe A. Belarga, Toyota Vios winner and Antonio Tan, Manila 2 area head.

04-19-10 BDO raising US$250m in primary capital IFC and IFC Capitalization Fund to invest US$150M

[Manila, 19 April 2010] Banco De Oro Unibank Inc. ("BDO") announced that it will be undertaking an aggregate US$250 million primary capital raising to support the Bank’s growth and strengthen its position in the Philippine banking sector. It will be anchored by a US$150 million subscription by the International Finance Corporation (“IFC”) a member of the World Bank Group, and the IFC Capitalisation (Equity) Fund, L.P. and a targeted additional US$100 million “top-up equity placement” worth of common shares that will be offered to select institutional investors outside the Philippines, which is being launched today. The new capital will be used to support the Bank’s medium-term growth objectives and further reinforce its position in the Philippine banking industry. The IFC subscription is expected to close on 27 April 2010, subject to certain customary closing conditions.

The IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, and the IFC Capitalization Fund, founded by IFC and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (“JBIC”), have agreed to invest an aggregate of US$150 million in newly issued common shares of BDO. IFC will invest US$22.5 million and the IFC Capitalization Fund will invest US$127.5 million.

This is the first IFC Capitalization Fund investment in Asia. The US$3 billion IFC Capitalization Fund is a global equity and subordinated debt fund that aims to support banks considered vital to the financial system of an emerging market country. By supporting systemically important institutions, the Fund aims to speed up economic recovery and boost job creation while reducing the impact of the financial crisis.

“IFC’s investment will support BDO’s stepped-up efforts to offer financing to small and medium-sized enterprises that form the backbone of the Philippine economy, helping to bolster the economic recovery and job security,” said Karin Finkelston, IFC Director for East Asia and the Pacific. “It will also support BDO in building its position in financing infrastructure development in the Philippines on a sustainable basis.”

The additional investment further strengthens the strategic partnership between IFC and BDO and expands the potential areas for collaboration in the areas of corporate governance, risk management and special lending to sectors such as renewable energy. With this investment, IFC is expected to nominate a representative to BDO’s Board of Directors.

UBS will act as Sole Bookrunner for the top-up placement, which is expected to close on 23 April 2010.

Both the IFC and the top-up equity placement transactions were priced at Php41.50 per share (“Offer Price”). The Offer Price was based on market, computed using the volume weighted average price of BDO shares on the PSE for the past 15 trading days, without any discount. To afford the investing public equal access to information, BDO has requested for a trading halt for one day. Trading in BDO shares will resume on Tuesday, April 20, 2010.

Upon the successful completion of the IFC and “top-up equity placement” transactions, based on its capitalisation as of 31 December 2009, BDO’s Tier 1 capital ratio is expected to increase from 8.4% to 10.0% and total capital ratio to increase from 12.4% to 14.0%.

About BDO

BDO is among the market leaders in the Philippine banking industry. It ranked first in terms of total resources, trust assets, loans and deposits while ranking second in terms of capital as of December 31, 2009. The Bank offers a complete array of products and services, serving the Retail and Institutional Markets, i.e., Lending (Corporate, Commercial, Consumer, and SME), Foreign Exchange, Brokering, Trust and Investments, Credit Cards, Corporate Cash Management and Remittances. Through its subsidiaries, the Bank offers Leasing and Financing, Investment Banking, Private Banking, Bancassurance, Insurance Brokerage and Stock Brokerage services. For more information, visit www.bdo.com.ph.

About IFC

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, creates opportunity for people to escape poverty and improve their lives. We foster sustainable economic growth in developing countries by supporting private sector development, mobilizing private capital, and providing advisory and risk mitigation services to businesses and governments. Our new investments totaled US$14.5 billion in fiscal 2009, helping channel capital into developing countries during the financial crisis. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

About JBIC

Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) is the international wing of the Japan Finance Corporation (JFC), Japan’s policy-based financing institution established on October 1, 2008. It succeeded International Financial Operations of former JBIC and will continue to use the name of JBIC to maintain international trust and confidence it has gained. JBIC provides policy-based finance with a mission to contribute to the sound development of the Japanese and international economy, including finance responding to disruptions in financial order in the international economy. For more information, visit www.jbic.go.jp.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES: This press release is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States or elsewhere. The shares of BDO have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act) and may not be offered or sold in the United States unless registered under the Securities Act or pursuant to an exemption from such registration. There will be no public offering of the Shares in the United States.

04-12-10 BDO recommends: Build up your wealth; invest in trust products

As part of its continued drive to encourage people to move beyond just saving their money but also to begin investing, Banco De Oro has launched the I Invest Ad series, specifically talking about how the Bank can help achieve one's financial goals through proper investment management.

“BDO has always been very active in educating Filipinos about the value of investing. Through the I Invest campaign, we want to show our "kababayans" that they have the power to realize their plans in life -- whether this is to see their children finish college, to continue their current lifestyle when they retire or to simply enjoy life -- by becoming investors - the earlier, the better," said Ador A. Abrogena, executive vice president and head of BDO Trust and Investments Group (BDO TIG).

BDO has consolidated trust assets of P457 billion, the largest in the industry and accounting for 25% market share as of year-end 2009. BDO TIG offers a wide range of trust and investment products, including pooled funds like the Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITFs) that offer a way for investors with similar objectives to obtain the benefits of diversification and ease of investing / redemption and the more customized portfolios for those who prefer to invest in securities of their own selection. It also provides investment management and trust administration for clients with specialized needs.

“Our mission is to provide investment opportunities for everyone because we believe that saving money is only the first step. If you want to really grow your wealth to meet or sustain future dreams you must invest in a way that will maximize the returns of your hard-earned funds at the level of risk you are comfortable with. We provide this opportunity through our trust and investment products in a way that is easy to understand and convenient for everyone. And because we have the scale and volume of business, we even make it more cost effective for everyone," explained Abrogena.

To learn more about how BDO can help you attain your goals, contact BDO TIG through investments@bdo.com.ph, (632) 878-4299/4224 (Metro Manila), (6332) 231-1131 (Cebu) or (6382) 221-8959 (Davao).

04-08-10 BDO inks MoA with St. Scholastica for bills payment service

Banco De Oro Unibank (BDO) is providing bills payment service to St. Scholastica's College of Manila starting April 15, 2010.

Under the memorandum of agreement recently signed by the two parties, BDO, through its transaction banking group (TBG), will provide the facility that will allow students/parents to pay tuition in all of the Bank's branches, and soon, through its overseas remittance partners, ATMs, Mobile and Internet Banking.

St. Scholastica's College is a Catholic institution recognized as one of the Philippines' prestigious and progressive colleges for women.

Present during the MoA signing were (seated from left) Sr. Vida Mones, OSB treasurer/finance director; Sr. Mary Thomas Prado, OSB vice president for academic affairs; Sr. Angelica Leviste, OSB president; Jaime Nasol, senior vice president for BDO's TBG; Edgardo Marcelo Jr., vice president for cash management services; Sr. Roselita Geronimo, OSB laboratory and studio supervisor; Sr. Vicenta Anuran, OSB vice president for academic affairs. Standing at the back (from left) were Malou Navarro, senior manager/branch head Taft-Vito Cruz; Noel Dizon, BDO first vice president and area head of Manila 2; Melissa Tong, assistant vice president for BDO cash management services and John Paul Dalipe, account manager for cash management services.

03-29-10 BDO Foundation donates medical equipment

BDO Foundation signed recently a deed of donation and memorandum of agreement with the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO) for donation of various medical equipment for ophthalmological, otolaryngological and obstetrical use amounting to P38 million.

A total of 11 hospitals and institutions with resource capabilities and proven service records in providing charitable activities and accredited residency training programs in their respective fields of disciplines were identified as beneficiaries. These are Baguio General Hospital, Batangas Regional Hospital, East Avenue Medical Center, Jose B. Lingad Memorial Hospital, Northern Mindanao Medical Center, Philippine National Ear Institute, Quirino Memorial Medical Center, Rizal Medical Center, UERM, UP-PGH and the Western Visayas Medical Center.

Shown in photo receiving the donation for ophthalmology equipment were (front row from left) Dr. Carlomagno Torres, chair, Department of Ophthalmology of Jose B. Lingad Memorial Hospital; Corazon de la Paz-Bernardo, trustee, BDO Foundation and BDO Unibank vice-chair; Dr. Reynaldo E. Santos, PAO President (2008-2009); Dr. Jose Ma. Martinez, assistant chairman for training, Department of Ophthalmology of East Avenue Medical Center; and Dr. Franklin Kleiner, chair, Department of Ophthalmology of Rizal Medical Center & PAO councilor. (Back row from left) Dr. Heriberto P. Guballa, PAO councilor; Dr. Ruben Lim Bon Siong, PAO secretary (2008-2009); Maureen C. Abelardo, managing director, BDO Foundation; Dr. Harvey S. Uy, PAO treasurer (2008-2009); and Dr. Fay Charmaine S. Cruz, member, PAO Search & Selection Committee.

03-24-10 BDO Remit widens reach to sea-b ased Pinoy workers

BDO Unibank Inc., through its remittance service brand BDO Remit, recently formed partnership with two more marine recruitment agencies – Parola Maritime Agency Corp. and Eagle Star Crew Management Corp. -- to expand its reach to sea-based Filipino workers.

Present during the signing of the memorandum of agreement were (from left) Eagle Star Crew Management Corp. principal rep. Capt. Md Bakri Baharudin; Eagle Star Crew Management Corp. president/CEO and dir. Simon W.S. Heo; first vice president and head of BDO Remittance international operations Jonathan Diokno; and BDO Remittance senior manager and head for shipping business development Maria Lourdes Candelario.

03-18-10 St. Luke's opens BDO Doctor's Lounge

St. Luke's Medical Center (SLMC), one of the country's premiere medical institutions, recently inaugurated the BDO Doctor's Lounge located in its newest and modern facility in Bonifacio Global City.

The ceremony was attended by Banco De Oro officials led by its chairperson Teresita Sy-Coson and president Nestor V. Tan. SLMC key officers Jose F. G. Ledesma, president and chief executive, and Dr. Joven R. Cuanang, senior vice president for medical affairs and chief medical officer, meanwhile, handed the Bank a token of appreciation for the partnership.

The partnership signifies the collaboration of two client-driven organizations with BDO, being a full-service universal bank offering various financial products and SLMC, a world-class medical entity delivering excellent healthcare through highly competent professionals using modern technology and research.

Shown in photo were (from left) Jaime C. Yu, BDO executive vice president for branch banking group; Jose F.G. Ledesma, president and CEO of SLMC; Nestor V. Tan, BDO president; and Dr. Joven R. Cuanang, SVP for medical affairs and chief medical officer.

03-16-10 IFC helps largest Philippine bank finance climate change projects

Manila, Philippines, March 16, 2010— IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, has agreed to advise the Philippines’ Banco de Oro as it expands into energy efficiency and renewable energy markets to encourage more investments that will help the country manage climate change.

Under a new cooperation agreement, IFC will provide advisory services to Banco de Oro, a leading financial institution and the largest commercial bank in the Philippines, to give the local private sector appropriate financing for sustainable energy investments.

“BDO sees a lot of investment potential in the energy efficiency and renewable energy markets, as well as in clean development mechanism finance,” said Nestor V. Tan, Banco de Oro President. “We are glad to have IFC’s global expertise in sustainable energy finance complementing our deep understanding of the Philippine business environment. Together, we can promote greater use of environment-friendly energy sources.”

While the Philippines accounts for less than .01 percent of global greenhouse-gas emissions, its archipelagic territory makes it vulnerable to climate change. Two typhoons hit the Philippines in late September 2009, causing property, infrastructure, and crop damage amounting to $4.38 billion. The typhoons directly affected 9.3 million people, according to an assessment done by the Department of Finance with the private sector.

Jesse Ang, IFC Resident Representative, said, “This agreement is part of IFC’s global efforts to help minimize the adverse effects of climate change, especially in developing economies which suffer the most from it.”

IFC is the only international financial institution focused solely on the private sector, the engine of sustainable development in emerging markets. Along with the IBRD, IFC is currently seeking a capital increase to strengthen its ability to create opportunity for the poor in developing countries—including support for climate-friendly investments.

About IFC
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, creates opportunity for people to escape poverty and improve their lives. We foster sustainable economic growth in developing countries by supporting private sector development, mobilizing private capital, and providing advisory and risk mitigation services to businesses and governments. Our new investments totaled $14.5 billion in fiscal 2009, helping channel capital into developing countries during the financial crisis. For more information, visit www.ifc.org .

About BDO
BDO is a full-service universal bank that maintains strategic focus on principal segments, namely, the corporate market; middle-market banking segment; and the retail/consumer market. The bank also has expertise in asset management, leasing and finance, remittances, bancassurance, credit cards, and corporate cash management. Through selective acquisitions and organic growth, BDO is positioning for increased strength and continuing expansion into new markets.

03-15-10 BDO holds SME forum in Cavite

After its successful stint in Batangas, Banco de Oro (BDO) wrapped up another forum intended for its small and medium enterprise (SME) clients last month.

Attended by around 150 clients from the Laguna and Cavite areas, the forum, held in The Orchard Golf & Country Club in Dasmarinas, Cavite, featured industry experts and BDO resource speakers who gave their perspectives on running and expanding a business.

Dr. Eduardo Morato Jr., chairman ACE Center of Entrepreneurship and Management Education, was the main speaker of the event as he talked about the Simple Approach to Measuring Working Capital and Financing Needs, how to determine their financing needs and manage their cash flows in simple and easy manner.

BDO also brought in as guest speaker Mamerta B. Purificacion, president of Antonina Industrial Corp. (AIC), who shared their success story in growing the family business. AIC, which started as a small homegrown business in Sta Rosa, Laguna, manufactures Milo, Nescafe, Maggi, Cerelac and Nestea packaging for Nestle Philippines, and is now one of the consumer giant's most awarded suppliers.

Other speakers at the forum were BDO vice president and chief market strategist Jonathan Ravelas, who gave a short economic situationer called The Economy of Juan Dela Cruz, and Jaime Nasol, senior vice president for transaction banking group-cash management and e-banking, who discussed Maximizing Productivity & Enhancing Efficiencyfor small and medium-sized businesses. Walter Wassmer, BDO's senior executive vice president for insitutional banking group ended the forum by letting the SMEs know how they can grow their business with BDO's help.

BDO president Nestor V. Tan, for his part, assured the “emerging corporates” of the Bank's full support to their endeavors. He also led the forum's question and answer segment to address concerns and queries from the clients.

Shown in photo were, from left, BDO chief market strategist Jonathan Ravelas; BDO senior executive vice president for insitutional banking group Walter Wassmer; Dr. Eduardo Morato Jr.; BDO senior vice president for transaction banking group Jaime Nasol; and BDO president Nestor Tan.

03-08-10 BDO Remit accepts overseas payments for Megaworld devt's

BANCO de Oro Unibank, through its remittance service brand BDO Remit, has expanded its bills payment service following a partnership with property developer Megaworld Corp.

In a remittance deal signed recently by the two parties, BDO Remit offices in various countries can now accept payments for the properties developed by Megaworld in the Philippines. Megaworld is known for its landmark project Eastwood City, a 17-hectare commercial and residential district in Libis, Quezon City.

To pay the monthly amortizations for Megaworld properties, Filipinos overseas only have to visit any BDO Remit office in Hong Kong, Macau, USA, Italy, Germany, France and Israel or any of BDO’s remittance partners and agents in Asia and Oceania, Australia, Middle East, North America and Europe accepting bills payment to the Philippines.

BDO Remit international offices are also accepting remittances for direct payment of monthly bills in the Philippines such as credit card balances, telephone and cable television bills and many others. For inquries, customers may call BDO Customer Contact Center at 631-8000 (Metro Manila) or 1-800-10-6318000 (PLDT calls outside Metro Manila) or 1-800-3-6318000 (Digitel calls outside Metro Manila).

03-04-10 BDO Leasing ends 2009 with expanded assets; revenues

BDO Leasing and Finance, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Banco De Oro Unibank, ended 2009 with increased revenues amounting to P2.21 billion, up 61.4 percent from the previous year's P1.37 billion. Net margin was lower due to a shift in product and customer focus as well as keener competition for market share. Net income amounted to P300 million from the previous year's P366 million as a result of the impact of adjustments in recognition of depreciation expense and more conservative provisioning policies. Without these adjustments, net income in 2009 would have been at par with that of 2008.

Its president, Lapid, attributed the revenue growth to the strong operating lease income, which rose to 57 percent of total financing income in 2009 from 20 percent in 2008.

BDO Leasing aligned last year its customer and product priorities with the demand, utilizing its strong market presence on corporate clients and shifting its product focus on operating leases.

Meanwhile, the listed firm's total assets as of end 2009 rose 25 percent to P13.05 billion from P10.41 billion the year before due to heightened marketing efforts. Bulk of the said growth represented the increase in net loans.

The company paid out in July and December cash dividends totalling P432 million or P0.20 per share.

Likewise, BDO Leasing secured in 2009 an approval from corporate regulators to issue up to P8 billion worth of short-term commercial papers (STCP), which garnered a high rating from PhilRatings.

03-01-10 BDO audited net income surges to P6.1 billion in 2009

Banco De Oro Unibank Inc. posted an audited net income of P6.1 billion for the full year 2009, driven by robust growth in operating income and a slower increase in operating costs. This was higher than the P5.5 billion target for the year and represents an increase of 173% over the P2.2 billion income registered in 2008.

The Bank’s operating income was generated from core businesses, leading to reduced reliance on volatile trading income. Net interest income increased 33 percent to P30.6 billion in 2009, given a larger level of earning assets and improved margins.

Net interest income was driven by the 20 percent expansion in gross customer loans to P472.7 billion, and growth in low-cost deposits. Loan demand was sustained across all market segments, while low-cost deposit growth was fueled by additional branch redeployments. Total non-interest income grew 13 percent, while fee-based service income, exclusive of trading income and one-time gains, grew 12%.

Non-performing loan (NPL) ratio dipped to 3.2% from 4% as of the 4thquarter of 2008. The Bank took early steps to adjust its risk management processes even before the onset of the financial crisis in late 2008. Nevertheless, the Bank maintained its conservative outlook setting aside provisions of P6.2 billion, thereby improving its NPL coverage ratio to 80%.

For this year, the Bank hopes to do well by leveraging on its operating scale and maintaining good growth in its core businesses amid a more favorable operating environment. In this light, the Bank is considering plans to raise fresh capital to support its medium-term growth objectives and further reinforce its position in the industry. The amount, structure and timing have yet to be finalized at this point.

With a strengthened business franchise across most business lines, BDO maintained its industry leadership in terms of total assets, customer loans, deposits, and trust assets under management.

02-25-10 Mom wins Avanza from money sent by US-based daughter

Agnes Flores of Angeles City, Pampanga took home a brand new 2009 Toyota Avanza after winning the grand draw for the Maagang Pamasko Hatid ng MoneyGram at BDO sa SM promo last January.

The 45-year-old mother of three is a beneficiary of money sent from the US by her daughter working in California. The remittance, sent through MoneyGram and claimed from a Banco de Oro branch, automatically earned her a raffle entry in both the monthly and grand raffle draws. The promo ran from August to December 2009.

BDO and MoneyGram are known in the industry for delivering fast, secure and reliable service. When remitters send money through MoneyGram agents, beneficiaries in the Philippines can claim their remittances from nearly 700 BDO branches, SM Business Service Center or SM Forex Counter in SM Department Stores, Makro and SaveMore branches.

Shown in photo, from left, were Jhoanna L. See (vice president for finance and admin, Toyota Alabang Inc.), Agnes Flores (winner), Ismael Estela Jr., senior vice president BDO's transaction banking group, Dennis Yaw (assistant vice president for business center operations, SM Retail Inc.).

02-16-10 IFR Asia and Alpha Southeast Asia cite BDO Capital for SMB bond issue

Two foreign publications have separately cited BDO Capital & Investment Corp., the investment banking subsidiary of Banco De Oro, for taking a lead role in the P38.8-billion bond issuance of San Miguel Brewery, Inc. (SMB) in 2009.

The International Financing Review Asia (IFR Asia), the region's most authoritative capital markets magazine, noted that SMB achieved an unimaginable feat raising a chunky P38.8 billion in a three-tranche bond issue.

"The deal marked the biggest single corporate bond in the domestic debt markets in the Philippines, and opened the floodgates to large issues that followed in its wake. It stands as IFR Asia's Domestic Bond and Philippines Capital Markets Deal of the Year," stated IFR Asia.

BDO Capital played an important role as one of the joint underwriters for the deal. This, according to IFR Asia, is the first time for an institution to receive both regional and country awards.

Alpha Southeast Asia, in its 3rd Annual Deal Awards, also recognized BDO Capital for the SMB deal. The Hong Kong-based institutional investment magazine awarded SMB's bond issuance as Best Debut Bond Deal of the Year in Southeast Asia.

In its December 2009/January 2010 issue, Alpha Southeast highlighted that among the 10 joint lead managers, BDO Capital took the lion's share of the issue during the underwriting process with an underwriting commitment of P9.9 billion (US$212 million ) or 26% of the issue. "The investment bank's commitment evidences BDO Capital's very strong distribution capability in the Philippines."

02-08-10 BDO Leasing offers promo for Mercedes Benz

BDO Leasing and Finance, Inc. is offering a special package promo that allows high networth clients to drive any Mercedes-Benz automotive vehicle at very competitive leasing rates.

Unveiled at the recently held BDO-Mercedes Benz Privileged Circle Night, BDO Leasing, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Banco De Oro, said that from Jan. 28 to Feb. 28, 2010, its existing clients and prospective customers can avail for as low as P36,434 a month a Mercedes Benz unit through lease. Mercedes-Benz is distributed in the Philippines by CATS Motors, Inc.

BDO Leasing senior assistant vice president Rosario Crisostomo added the special promo carries other benefits such as tax advantage; flexible lease rate options; extended lease terms (maximum of seven years); not subjected to maintenance requirement; and insurance arrangement that can be included in the rental schedule.

The Privileged Circle Night, which also coincided with the launch of Mercedes-Benz's new vehicle models M-Class CDI and GL-Class CDI, was attended by high net-worth clients/depositors of BDO Leasing and BDO's Branch Banking Group and officials of both the Bank and CATS Motors.

Shown in the photo were (from left) Greg Yu, chairman of CATS Motors; BDO president Nestor V. Tan; CATS Motors president Felix Ang; and Antonio Cotoco, managing director BDO Leasing.

02-05-10 BDO supports non-profit organizations

Banco De Oro, in partnership with Venture for Fund Raising, recently held a one-day forum on"Mobilizing and Managing Resources for Non-Profits" as a way of guiding the non-profit sector in ensuring financial stability via proper fund management and investor education program.

The forum, attended by about 150 participants, featured as resource speaker Marianne G. Quebral, executive director of Venture for Fund Raising, the first and only non-profit organization that serves the fund raising needs of other non-profits in the country and Asia. Quebral discussed fund raising concepts and principles; strategies and steps on how to plan and implement fund raising programs.

Anthony Emmanuel C. De Dios, assistant vice president for Investment Research and Strategy Department of BDO Trust and Investments Group, on the other hand, tackled the effective mobilization and management of resources. According to De Dios, Extra funds need not to be idle funds; these can be utilized to generate more savings for future projects and expenditures.

BDO, through its Trust and Investments Group, is actively supporting the non-profit sector and is committed to finding ways in making the sector's plans achievable.

Shown in photo are (left) De Dios and Quebral during the Q and A portion of the forum.

02-29-10 BDO gives fresh start to OFWs

TWENTY nine-year-old Presil dela Cruz, a domestic helper victimized by abusive employers in UAE, was rewarded a fresh start after she won, via raffle, a BDO Kabayan Savings Account with an initial deposit of P25,000.

The promo was still part of the "Pamaskong Salubong Para Sa OFW" of the Overseas Workers Welfare Association (OWWA), an annual program in which Banco de Oro is a major sponsor.

A native of Aklan, Dela Cruz went home last Jan. 15 with no money in her pocket and goodies for her daughter, whom she promised to bring bags of chocolates. She said her employers didn't give her salary and even deprived her of food.

With the help of her employment agency, she was able to leave her employers' place and return to the Philippines.

"Hindi po ako makapaniwala na ako'y nanalo. Salamat po at mabibili ko rin ng pasalubong ang anak ko," says Dela Cruz.

Apart from her, also a winner of BDO Kabayan Savings Account was 44-year-old Gemma Orozco, a ticketing officer in Kuwait. She will donate part of her winnings to their church in Dagupan, Pangasinan. Meanwhile, two other OFWs, namely Rey Antonio and Jonamel Onyot each won P5,000 worth of SM Gift certificates.

Shown in photo were (from left) BDO assistant vice president and head for marketing and product development-remittance domestic operations Ma. Concepcio Apostol; OWWA administrator Carmelita Dimzon; OFW winner Presil dela Cruz; and BDO NAIA assistant branch head Ronald Gonzales.

01-15-10 Generali Pilipinas to Intensify Focus on Bancassurance

COMING from a strong performance of bancassurance sales in 2009, Generali Pilipinas sees a continuation of growth this year on the back of various strategies that include increased efforts and resources on both its life and non-life operations.

For life, the company, via the Generali Pilipinas Life Assurance Compay (GPLAC), will zero in on expanding the current bancassurance sales force to cover the growing branch network of Banco de Oro (BDO) more extensively. Besides selling the traditional single premium products, GPLAC will direct its sales efforts to deliver insurance protection products to an even broader segment of the BDO customer base.

GPLAC, emphasized however, that it will continue to distribute products through its career agent channel and will continue to grow it more deliberately as a high quality, professional sales outfit capable of delivering tailored solutions to its clientele.

Meanwhile, Generali Pilipinas said it will modify the scope of the non-life operations under the Generali Pilipinas Insurance Company, Inc. (GPIC) so it can focus on large local and multinational/global segments.

"With a more defined strategy moving forward, GPLAC will proceed full steam ahead to widen its reach, offer more innovative products and build on strength of its excellent relationship with its bank partners, sales force and all its business intermediaries," said Generali Pilipinas president Renato Vergel De Dios.

01- 08-10 OFW gets answer to his prayer

FORTY EIGHT-year-old Berlin Cruz, an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Saudi Arabia, went home last December 23 with one fervent wish in mind – to rebuild their house that was destroyed by typhoon Ondoy.

Thanks to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)-led Pamaskong Handog sa OFW 2009, his prayer was answered in more ways than one. This annual welcoming and gift-giving activity for returning OFWs is done every Christmas season in cooperation with the Labor department and partners from the private sector. Now on its 15th year, the program is a way of recognizing the OFWs' valuable contribution to national development.

Cruz was among the batch of OFWs who arrived aboard Gulf Air GF 154 and were told to draw from a bowl without any idea of what is in store. To his surprise, he picked out a paper indicating that he won a “special prize”. He was then brought to a room where he was awarded the P200,000-worth Kabayan Savings Account from Banco De Oro (BDO), a major sponsor of the event. Bank officers Ismael Estela Jr. and Jonathan Diokno of the transaction banking group (TBG), OWWA administrator Carmelita Dimzon and Labor Secretary Marianito Roque were present to personally award the prize.

“Maligayang-maligaya ako kasi meron na akong savings para sa enrollment ng mga anak ko at pang-pagawa ng nasira naming bahay sa Rizal. Nagpapasalamat talaga ako sa BDO,” said Cruz.

A father of five, Cruz works as a structural engineer in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia and UAE, is host to many Filipinos workers, mostly engineers, nurses or hospital workers, accountants, office employees, construction workers, restaurant crew and domestic helpers.

“Sana, tuluy-tuloy ang ganitong programa ng OWWA dahil maraming matutulungan na katulad kong OFW,” he added.

Shown in photo were (from left) Overseas Workers Welfare Administrator Carmelita Dimzon, BDO SVP for transaction group Ismael Estela Jr; Pamaskong Handog winner Berlin Cruz; Labor Chief Marianito Roque; and BDO FVP for TBG-remittance international operations Jonathan Diokno.

01- 04-10 OFW wins 200k from Banco de Oro

Banco de Oro officials Ismael Estela Jr. (right) and Jonathan Diokno (left) congratulate overseas Filipino worker Berlin Cruz for winning a P200,000-worth of peso savings account with the Bank. Cruz, who arrived from Saudi Arabia last month, said he will use the money to fund his kids' tuitions and reconstruct their house that was ruined by the typhoon.

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