The Bankers Association of the Philippines, composed of universal and commercial banks, assured the public of banking services despite the limited workforce amid the month-long enhanced community quarantine in Luzon.
It said in a statement Friday the nation is indebted to brave health workers who risk their own lives to save others.
“The BAP fully supports the efforts and action done by the national government to immediately arrest and contain the spread of the COVID-19. We can assure the public that our member banks are here to continuously provide critical services amid difficulties and challenges,” it said.
“Despite operating on skeletal workforce, we kept some branches open, ATM machines working and the financial markets going,” it said.
It said banks were committed to delivering these services to ensure the flow of goods and services which are even more vital at this time.
The BAP appealed to the public for their patience and understanding in availing the financial requirements during these extraordinary circumstances given the limited personnel that the banks can deploy during the quarantine period in Luzon.
“The banks are doing exceptional measures to ensure continuity of access to banking services in the most efficient and sustainable manner. Now, more than ever, the public’s cooperation and understanding are needed and crucial in mitigating this health crisis,” BAP said.
It said that with the passage of Republic Act No. 11469, the group was in close coordination with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for the smooth implementation of the “Bayanihan to Heal as One Act.”
“The banking industry is here to support the national government and do what is necessary to help win the fight against COVID-19,” it said.