Several banks announced plans over the weekend to adjust operating hours to continue services to the public despite the surge in COVID-19 infection that also affected their employees.
BDO Unibank Inc. said as part of efforts to keep clients and personnel safe, its branches in Metro Manila would close by 3 p.m. starting Jan. 10.
“Additionally, NCR branches will not be open for Saturday banking starting Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022,” it said in a statement.
“Our clients’ safety is very important to us. Our safety protocols in the branches remain intact and our employees are vaccinated. They also go through the regular Antigen testing to ensure a safe workplace scenario,” BDO said.
Bank of the Philippine Islands said branches would be open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but advised customers to plan branch trips accordingly.
“We encourage you to stay at home and use BPI Online and BPI mobile app for your everyday banking needs,” BPI said.
Philippine National Bank said starting Jan. 10, its nationwide branch banking hours (except for mall-based and NAIA branches) would be from 9 a.m. To 3 p.m. “due to reported increase in number of COVID-19 cases in the country”.
“PNB’s Bank On Wheels will be rolled out to service areas where there are no ATMs. Our 1,731 ATMs and cash accept machines will continue to serve you,” it said.
The Bankers Association of the Philippines assured the public that its member banks were committed to providing continuing services despite the recent rise of COVID-19 cases.
“In light of the current situation, our member banks are enhancing their health protocols to protect both clients and employees from the virus. These may include temporarily closing down certain branches and shortening operating hours for routine cleaning and disinfection,” it said.
“These enhancements are in addition to existing health protocols strictly implemented by our member banks in their branches, such as the mandatory wearing of face masks and social distancing in all premises,” the BAP said.
The Chamber of Thrift Banks also promised continued banking services and that most of its member-banks’ branches/units and branch lite units would remain open to serve the public.
“While there are some bank branches that are closed in certain areas due to affected employees of the banks, the banks rotate their people to keep other branches open. Customers can transact in any open branches nearby, plus, digital platforms—mobile banking, online onboarding and ATMs are available,” the CTB said.
It said banks established split teams in all their branches since the start of the pandemic to allow them to continue to operate when one team is exposed and should be quarantined.
“The banks maximize the use of contact centers and use of digital channels (Instapay, Pesonet, QR code facility and payment providers) and cash agents. Their relationship managers also work from home and utilize their remote tools to continue to service their clients,” the CTB said.
