Almost always, I look forward to attending the anniversary celebration of Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. (Metrobank), one of the country’s largest banks. Though it’s beyond simple, still it’s unpretentious without the usual glitz and glamour that characterizes most celebrations.
The reason: Metrobank walks the talk. For as long as I can remember, the third largest lender, has always been associated with its brand phrase of “You’re in Good Hands with Metrobank.”
And for me, it’s not merely a catchy or memorable phrase for a marketing campaign. Simply because, for 45 years of its 62-year journey as a financial institution, Metrobank’s hands have been empowering communities, non-government organizations, and schools to uplift the lives of its major stakeholders—the people, its depositors.
On Wednesday, many, including this old soul of a journalist, braved the thoroughfares, which, by the way, travel was a breeze, while tropical typhoon Enteng (Yagi, for my international readers) was lashing his fury in tandem with Habagat (Southwest monsoon).
Just as an aside: Yes, Virginia, man-made and natural calamities, including weather disturbance, are not deterrents but, actually, are stimuli that spark and perk up the instincts of a dye-in-cast journalist to have a good story to tell.
Metrobank marked its 62 years with the bank’s founder, George SK Ty, granting a turnover of P45 million to some 30 development partners involved in health promotion, access to quality education, livelihood development, food security and nutrition, and nature conservation.
Recipients include, among others, Masungi Georeserve, Advancement for Rural Kids, CBCP Caritas Pilipinas Foundation, Pampamilyang Paaralang Agrikultura Foundation, MFI Polytechnic Institute, Punlaan School, and the Toyota Motor Philippines School of Technology.
The assistance guiding thrust revolves around the late founder’s principle of taking care of the underserved and marginalized sectors of society, which is the Metrobank Group of Companies’ “core value.”
Metrobank Foundation member of the board of directors Dr. Cecilio Pedro stressed that extending the lending hand is what “our people need, especially at this time.”
“We’re united in this mission,” Dr. Pedo added, speaking not for the foundation but also as president of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. as well as the founder of Lamoiya Corp. that manufactures Hapee toothpaste.
And, as Metrobank Foundation President Aniceto “Chito” Sobrepeña capsulized the 45 years of the foundation’s existence: “We have instilled the essence of a heart that serves by highlighting our commitment to the nation’s well-being beyond just economic growth.”
“We recognize that in empowering an entire nation, we must engage in partnerships to nurture communities, support societal progress, and deepen the contribution we can make to the greater good.”
Well said Mr. Chito, who in the past three years has been telling friends he will soon be retiring. After his Malacanang days, Mr. Chito has always been synonymous with Metrobank Foundation.
Interestingly, this corner of the banking corridor observed the presence of Ms. Marie Remolona, the be-dimpled, self-effacing wife of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli Remolona.
Nope, it’s not because she was at the event on behalf of the Governor. Just like last year, Ms. Marie represented Masungi Georeserve, one of the grant beneficiaries where she is deeply involved as a conservationist.
And here’s the thing, it’s also been two years since Gov. Eli has been at the helm of the BSP. But, did you know that the Remolona couple has yet to be accustomed to the retinue of bodyguards in their midst?
If their schedule allows, Ms. Marie shared that they still do their weekend morning walks around the streets of Makati Central Business District but, of course, relish those days when no one is following them.
With personalities like Dr. Pedro, Ms. Marie, Mr. Chito and of course, the Ty family, we, surely, are hapee and in good hands.
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