More Than Banking: BDO's Impact on Bago City’s Growth and Well-being

The month of November, particularly Cinco de Noviembre has always been special for the Negrenses as they commemorate the revolution by the people of Negros Occidental against the Spanish colonial government in 1898. This historic event is rooted in the ingenuity and bravery of the Negrenses also known as the "biggest bluff" as they used nipa fronds as “rifles” and rolled bamboo mats as “cannons,” creating a convincing illusion that led to the Spaniards’ surrender.

It is inspiring to hear the creativity and courage that took a small group to defeat the huge forces of the Spaniards and it only took someone like their leader, General Juan Araneta of Bago City, together with his Bagonhon troops, to believe that they could do it.

Today, when I think about Bago City and the Bagonhons, I see a community full of untapped potential. Bago is home to award-winning Criollo cacao beans, stunning Tumandok Arts and Crafts, and a hundred-year-old heirloom recipe for Panaras (or empanadas). Alongside these treasures, the city also boasts an abundance of historical and natural landmarks. Bago City may be small, but its people are incredibly talented, with so much to offer. 

.... They only need someone to believe in them. 

Source: Source:  Bago City Tourism Affairs

BDO is the only commercial bank in Bago City

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Rommel Torre, the manager of BDO Negros Occidental - Bago, and learned that BDO Unibank is currently the only commercial bank operating in Bago City.

Given that the city boasts an annual income of PHP 1.3 billion, I was initially surprised to learn that no other commercial banks have established a presence there.

However, it’s clear that BDO recognized Bago City’s economic potential early on and has taken an active role in supporting its growth. By providing accessible and readily available financial services, they ensure that businesses and residents have the resources they need to thrive.

Building Relationships with the Locals

BDO's branch presence not only serves its customers but also contributes to the local economy by providing job opportunities. BDO prioritizes hiring local staff, as they believe it fosters stronger relationships with clients. Having familiar faces allows customers to feel more at ease.

Mr. Torre who has been with BDO since its opening in 2014, emphasized the importance of long-term relationships with clients. Over the years, the bank has cultivated close bonds with its customers, which has fostered trust and loyalty.

When I spoke with Lucy, a BDO client since 2017, she said that her relationship with BDO is like a family. It is so personal that she even asks them to call her "tita" (aunt) She said everyone at the branch is always willing to help, and she considers her banking experience at BDO to be the best she’s had.

Disaster Response and Emergencies 

BDO has proven its resilience and commitment to its customers. Recognizing its essential role in times of crisis, the bank made sure to stay operational and support communities in need. With a significant number of families in the city relying on remittances from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), BDO ensured that these funds reached their intended recipients without delay.

The bank’s efforts went beyond just providing financial services—they were instrumental in keeping the economy flowing during uncertain times. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, BDO continued to operate, ensuring continuous service for the community. Employees kept the bank’s services running smoothly, ensuring that ATMs were stocked and accessible, especially before anticipated typhoons or other disasters. In this way, BDO showcased not only its operational efficiency but also its commitment to being a dependable partner for its customers during emergencies.

Community Initiatives Beyond the Bank

Source: The Citybridge (Bago City Newsletter)

BDO not only serves as a banking institution but is also active in nation-building. Through the BDO Foundation, they have supported the renovation of the city's health office, which allowed the LGU to provide better health services. They also donated computers to public schools in Bago City. During the recent eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, they extended relief goods to the evacuation centers to help those affected.

They also conduct financial literacy seminars. The most recent one was in the nearby municipality of Valladolid, where they teach small farmers the importance of savings.

What I love about this initiative is that it doesn’t stop with just lectures; they actually assist and help the farmers open their savings accounts. Their commitment to financial inclusion is truly translated into concrete actions.

BDO is here and they are here to stay

Tim Tebow, an American football quarterback, once said, "If someone is there to believe in you, to care about you, and support you, amazing things can happen."

The Bagonhons used their creativity to overcome overwhelming odds in the past, and today’s Bago City continues to show the same resourcefulness. BDO is right here supporting that growth because they care, support, and believe in the people of Bago City. 

They are here and they are a partner of the community. BDO is here to stay.