AMIDST the continuing surge of new and active cases of Covid-19, beginning today several banks may be closed for business even as the banking community asked the public to brace for the sporadic shutdowns and shortened operating hours.
According to the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP), “in light of the current health crisis situation, several of its member banks are now enhancing their health protocols to protect both clients and employees from the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that causes Covid-19. To clarify, bankers said that the upgrade in quarantine protocols may include temporarily closing down certain branches and shortening operating hours for routine cleaning and disinfection.
The association likewise explained that the said measures were in addition to existing health safety protocols strictly being implemented by member banks at their branches, such as the mandatory wearing of face masks and social distancing.
“Your safety is our top priority. Our member banks continuously provide innovative platforms to keep services running for clients,” the BAP pointed out.
In reaction, PROMDI presidential aspirant Emmanuel ‘Manny’ Pacquiao asked assurances from BAP’s members that their operational adjustments would be implemented to maintain reliable and accessible services while he encouraged bank clients to check their respective bank’s website, social media channels and announcements for updates and information on operating hours and banking services.
Meanwhile, in a separate statement issued by the Chamber of Thrift Banks (CTB), the group assured the public of continued banking services, announcing that most—if not all—of the branches of its members were open.
“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,” CTB said.
“Customers can transact in any open branches nearby, plus, digital platforms—mobile banking, online onboarding and ATMs are available. The banks also 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 must be quarantined,” it added.
In addition, CTB also revealed that their member banks were maximizing the use of contact centers and digital channels like Instapay, Pesonet, QR code facility and payment providers, as well as cash agents, to serve their customers.
Reacting to the pronouncements from both bank groups, the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reiterated its directive to BSP-supervised financial institutions to strictly observe minimum health protocols to safeguard the safety and well-being of bank personnel and customers.
“The BSP also encourages the public to use e-banking and digital payment services for safer and more efficient financial transactions,” it concluded in an official statement.
