Filipinos are likely to buy sports utility vehicles (SUVs) and house-and-lot properties when borrowing from domestic banks, according to Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank), a trend that the lender intends to reinforce by offering perks for purchase of home and car accessories.

“Filipino borrowers continue to favor practical, family-oriented purchases with SUVs and house-and-lot properties emerging as the top loan choices,” Metrobank wrote in a May 4 statement.

Home loan applicants still prefer house-and-lot developments over condominiums and townhouses, reflecting what Metrobank described as a sustained preference for land ownership and larger living spaces suited for multigenerational households.

Metrobank noted that this trend persists despite the continued expansion of vertical housing in urban centers, underscoring long-standing Filipino aspirations tied to property ownership and space for family use.

For many households, housing remains a key long-term financial priority, often linked to wealth-building goals and financial stability.

“Studies by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) show that property ownership remains a key aspiration tied to financial security and long-term wealth building,” Metrobank said, highlighting the role of home acquisition in household financial planning.

On the automotive side, Metrobank said SUVs continue to dominate borrower preferences, overtaking smaller sedans due to their higher seating capacity, versatility, and suitability for family travel.

Metrobank added that SUVs and multipurpose vehicles remain the most financed vehicle types in the market, reflecting consumer preference for space and durability amid daily commuting needs.

These borrowing patterns, Metrobank said, reflect how Filipino households typically approach major financial decisions, with families jointly evaluating long-term commitments alongside expenses such as healthcare, savings, and rising household costs.

To support these goals, Metrobank said it continues to expand financing programs for home and vehicle purchases. The bank has relaunched its “Goals Made Real” promo, running until May 29, 2026.

Under the promo, approved borrowers of home or car loans may benefit from lower interest rates, waived fees of up to ₱60,000, and free one-year AXA car insurance for auto loans. Applications must be approved and booked on or before July 31, 2026, the bank said, as it seeks to make major asset ownership more accessible to Filipino families. (Derco Rosal)