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LANDBANK accelerates QR code payments in public markets
(left photo) A market vendor at the Bacolod Libertad Market in Bacolod City now accepts payments through a Quick Response (QR) code powered by LANDBANK. (right photos) LANDBANK joins the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in the rollout of the “Paleng-QR Ph Plus” program in various public markets nationwide to facilitate on-the-spot bank account openings. The Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) continues to accelerate the adoption of cashless payments in public markets by providing market vendors, consumers, and local transport drivers with bank accounts capable of sending and receiving funds through Quick Response (QR) code. This is in support of the “Paleng-QR Ph Plus” initiative of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), designed to institutionalize the use of digital payments in public markets, local transportation particularly tricycles, and other business establishments. “LANDBANK joins the BSP and DILG in making daily transactions in public markets and small transport utilities seamless and more convenient. This also encourages ordinary Filipinos to open a bank account and avail of other financial services in pursuit of inclusive growth and development,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia Cayosa Borromeo. Since the program’s launch in August 2022, the Bank has facilitated account openings for market vendors and goers, as well as local transport drivers, from the country’s major public markets. These include the Baguio City Public Market in Baguio City, Bankerohan and Toril Public Market in Davao City, Tagbilaran Central Market in Tagbilaran City, Lapu-Lapu City Public Market in Cebu, Plaza Quezon in Naga City, Alabang New Central Market in Muntinlupa City, Pasig Mega Market in Pasig City, and Bacolod Libertad Market in Bacolod City. LANDBANK takes part in the rollout of the “Paleng-QR Ph Plus” program by setting up customer assistance booths in various public markets to facilitate on-the-spot account openings for market vendors. The type of accounts that may be opened include the LANDBANK regular savings account, the PISO (Perang Inimpok Savings Option) account with a minimum initial deposit of only P1.00, and the VISA e-Savings Debit Account with no minimum initial deposit. Successful merchants and vendors are provided with printed QR codes to be displayed or hanged at their stalls, which LANDBANK and non-LANDBANK consumers can scan to conveniently pay for goods in real-time. This arrangement makes the whole payment process convenient, faster, cost-effective, and more secure. This April, the state-run Bank will also be supporting the upcoming rollout of the “Paleng-QR Ph Plus” program in major public markets in Carmona in Cavite, Sto. Tomas City in Batangas, Iloilo City and Davao City.
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From ‘piggy bank’ to LANDBANK: First commercial bank in Albay town opens
Bacacay Mayor Armando B. Romano and LANDBANK Senior Vice President Althon C. Ferolino lead the opening of the LANDBANK Bacacay Branch-Lite on 27 March 2023, establishing the very first commercial bank in the municipality of Bacacay, Albay. (Inset) Mayor Romano breaks his piggy bank during the inauguration, which he then deposited to a LANDBANK account. BACACAY, Albay – In line with its thrust to promote inclusive economic growth, the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) established the first-ever commercial bank in this 2nd class municipality. LANDBANK officially opened its Bacacay Branch-Lite on 27 March 2023 in Barangay 11 to cater to the banking needs of residents in the town’s 56 barangays, as well as the nearby municipalities of Malilipot and Sto. Domingo. Bacacay Mayor Armando B. Romano and LANDBANK Senior Vice President Althon C. Ferolino led the opening of the Branch-Lite, together with Malilipot Mayor Cenon Volante and other local government officials. They were joined by LANDBANK Bacacay Branch-Lite Head Vincent Villar, current and former Tabaco Branch Heads, Marivic R. Nuñez and Emmanuel B. Hizola, respectively, and Legazpi Branch Head Assistant Vice President Cesar A. Ramirez. “Napakalaki po ng matitipid ng Bacacayanos with the opening of a LANDBANK Branch-Lite here in our municipality. With this, we hope to encourage our constituents to open formal bank accounts and establish a savings fund for their future,” said Mayor Romano. To set an example for his constituents, Mayor Romano opened his personal piggy bank during the inauguration and deposited his savings to a LANDBANK account, becoming the very first depositor of the Branch-Lite. The newly inaugurated Branch houses one automated teller machine (ATM) and one cash deposit machine (CDM) to cater to the cash requirements of local residents, including more than 7,600 beneficiaries of the Conditional and Unconditional Cash Transfer (CCT/UCT) programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), as well as government employees and students, among others. To help simplify the account enrolment process and reduce the account opening time of customers, the LANDBANK Bacacay Branch-Lite also features a Digital Corner where customers can open a deposit account using the Bank’s Digital Onboarding System (DOBS). With the opening of its Branch-Lite in Bacacay, LANDBANK now has seven Branch and Branch-Lite units in the Province of Albay – two (2) in Legazpi City, one (1) each in the cities of Ligao and Tabaco and the municipalities of Daraga and Polangui, complemented by 43 ATMs and four CDMs.
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LANDBANK helps Capiz co-op cultivate success
LANDBANK-backed Agsirab Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) continues to expand its lending operations while venturing into farm machinery rental, calabasa pancit production, and bakery business. The Capiz-based co-op currently has a membership base of more than 450 agrarian reform beneficiaries, farmers, and indigenous people. DUMARAO, Capiz – Agrarian reform beneficiary (ARB) Evelyn F. Bardies, a mother of four, toils on her awarded land to meet the daily needs of her family. It did not help that she used to rely on local dealers and traders to finance her farm input requirements for corn production. From the mountain barangay of Agsirab, she needed to travel back and forth to Roxas City to process her loan applications and deal with delayed transactions that unfavorably affected her farm’s overall productivity. Worse, her loans came with a hefty interest rate of 7% to 10% per month, leaving her with very little profit or sometimes even nothing at all despite all of her hard work. “Mahirap magpabalik-balik sa bayan para makipag-transact sa dealers at traders. ‘Yung iba ay hindi ako pinagbibigyan dahil wala silang tiwala, natatakot sila na baka hindi ako makapagbayad. At dahil sa laki ng interes, maliit lang din yung kinikita ko,” Evelyn recounts. The story of Evelyn mirrors the struggles of other ARBs from Brgy. Agsirab. This dire situation pushed them to form the Agsirab Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) in 2009, to pool resources and provide affordable and accessible credit assistance for its members. They initially chipped in P1,000 each and gathered a total of P25,000 in paid-up capital. They persevered to secure all the necessary permits to establish the co-op, and started gaining the trust of other ARBs, including those who previously had bad experiences in joining unsuccessful cooperatives. Driven by persistence and a determined spirit, the Agsirab MPC has grown into a profitable cooperative with assets reaching over P25 million today. It has likewise expanded its membership to more than 450 ARBs, small-scale farmers, and indigenous people, some from the nearby provinces of Iloilo, Antique and Aklan. The Agsirab MPC found a reliable partner in the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) in sustaining and growing its operations. The co-op availed from the Bank an initial credit line of P993,000 in 2012, which eventually increased to P30 million at present due to the co-op’s satisfactory repayment record. Apart from providing loans to its members, the Agsirab MPC has been successful in expanding its services and income-generating portfolio by venturing into farm machinery rental, calabasa pancit production, and bakery business. “Malaking malaki ang naitulong sa amin ng LANDBANK. Dahil sa kanila, nakaahon kami sa hirap at nakapagsimula ng maginhawang buhay. Sana hindi sila magsawang magpaabot ng tulong sa aming kooperatiba,” said Evelyn, who now serves as Agsirab MPC chair. Agsirab MPC Chair Evelyn F. Bardies is able to provide a comfortable life for her family through higher farm productivity and income. With convenient access to affordable credit and modern equipment, members of the Agsirab MPC now enjoy improved farm productivity and income. Evelyn shares that the co-op’s members are able to meet the basic needs of their families and regularly provide meals on the table. Most have been able to save for the construction of their own dream houses and purchase of vehicles. Evelyn herself was able to send her four children to school and give them a comfortable life. She likewise acquired additional agricultural lands and provide employment opportunities for local farm workers. Through the years, LANDBANK has stood side-by-side with the cooperative sector to serve their growth requirements. As of 31 January 2023, LANDBANK’s outstanding loans to the sector have reached P66.6 billion, benefitting over 1,360 co-ops nationwide.
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LANDBANK launches new program to boost local tourism
As travel restrictions ease up, the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) has launched a new credit program to support government efforts to revitalize local tourism in the country. The Tourist Infrastructures and Services Mobilization (TOURISM) Lending Program aims to provide financial assistance to local government units (LGUs), and tourism enterprises accredited with the Department of Tourism (DOT) to help them re-establish and improve their tourist facilities and services. "LANDBANK is committed to supporting the national government's efforts to restore confidence and enthusiasm for the tourism sector that will help boost economic activity, and create livelihood opportunities in tourist areas nationwide,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia Cayosa Borromeo. LANDBANK has allocated an initial program fund of P5 billion to finance access projects to tourist destinations like airports, sea ports, transport terminals, roads and bridges, communication utility and IT projects, water and power utility projects. Eligible projects include primary tourism support facilities, infrastructures and services like hotels, resorts, automation and digitalization of tourism services by travel agencies, facilities for meetings and conferences; secondary tourism projects like restaurant, adventure facilities, shopping malls, ambulatory clinics and spa; and tertiary hospitals among others. LGUs may borrow 100% of the total project cost requirement, but shall not be more than the LGU’s net borrowing capacity as certified by the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF), while small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and cooperatives may borrow up to 80% of the project cost, and up to 75% for large corporations. Short-term loans for working capital are payable up to one year while term loans for permanent working capital are payable up to five years. Meanwhile, term loans for capital expenditures are payable based on projected cash flow up to a maximum of 15 years, with a two-year grace period on the principal repayment. Term loans for the acquisition of tourist transport facilities and units are payable based on cash flow but not to exceed seven years or the economic useful life of the financed facilities, inclusive of a six-month grace period. Interested borrowers may contact the nearest open LANDBANK Lending Center or Branch nationwide, or call LANDBANK’s customer service hotline at (02) 8-405-7000 or at PLDT Domestic Toll Free 1-800-10-405-7000.
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LANDBANK joins Cebu co-op’s golden anniversary; celebrates collective action for positive change
A GOLDEN CELEBRATION – (right photo) LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia Cayosa Borromeo delivers the keynote address during the 50th anniversary celebration of the Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LMPC) on 12 March 2023 in Cebu City where she highlighted the essence of collective action to create a ripple of positive change. (left photo) President Borromeo (center) receives a plaque of appreciation from LPMC Chairperson Richard M. Obaner (2nd from right), Vice Chairperson Marcial B. Menchavez (rightmost), General Manager Maria Elena C. Limocon (4th from right) and Assistant General Manager Charlita B. Pangan (leftmost) CEBU CITY – The Land Bank of Philippines (LANDBANK) joined the Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LMPC) in celebrating its 50th anniversary on 12 March 2023, marking a solid partnership anchored on the mutual pursuit of inclusive and sustainable development in the countryside. LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia Cayosa Borromeo delivered the keynote address during the milestone event and highlighted the essence of collective action in making a positive change. She lauded LMPC’s meaningful undertakings that have shaped lives and transformed communities over the co-op’s five decades in service. “The story of Lamac MPC is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, to the power of we, and the force that drives a meaningful purpose — creating a ripple of positive change,” said President Borromeo. President Borromeo also challenged the LMPC board of directors, officers and members with three propositions as they cast their vision for the next 50 years and beyond: to ride the wave of digitalization; to make the most of collaborations; and to solidify their core values. LANDBANK has been a development partner of LMPC since 1992, when the Bank initially extended a P1-million loan to finance the co-op’s relending activities. The Bank has also been providing technical support to LMPC over the years through the conduct of operational review and capacity-building initiatives via the LANDBANK Countryside Development Foundation, Inc. (LCDFI). At present, LANDBANK has approved loans amounting to P1.4 billion in support of LMPC’s various agricultural and other development initiatives. These include the Milk Feeding Program, the Coco Hub Project, Cacao production, the Agri-Manufacturing Village, on-lending to members, and the construction of the co-op’s head office building. President Borromeo also lauded the success of LMPC as best demonstrated in the dramatic growth of Barangay Lamac in the town of Pinamungajan in Cebu. From a once secluded and isolated barangay with no roads, electricity, transportation, and potable water, the co-op has helped to transform it into a flourishing community with a vibrant local economy. Through the years, the Cebu-based co-op has successfully diversified its programs and services to include backyard poultry production, cacao farming, dairy processing, water refilling, agri-tourism, garments and print, catering, gasoline station, distributorship, and housing, among others. As an accredited Agent Banking Partner of LANDBANK, LMPC is also contributing to advance financial inclusion by providing basic banking services in remote and underserved areas. The LMPC continues to expand with a total of 56 branches in Cebu, Bohol, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Leyte. It has now close to 133,000 regular members and 20,089 youth members composed of small farmers and fishers, Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs), entrepreneurs, teachers, OFWs, drivers, and vendors. From 1994 to 2018, LMPC has received several awards and citations from LANDBANK in recognition of its outstanding accomplishments. These include the Gawad PITAK (Pinakatatanging Kooperatiba) Hall of Fame and Platinum Award, Key Cooperative Award, Ginintuang Gawad PITAK Award, and the Gawad PILAK (Pagkilala sa mga Institusyon at Indibidwal na Lumingap sa mga Adhikain para sa Kaunlaran) Award.
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LANDBANK-financed public market rises in Balingasag
(left photo) Balingasag Mayor Alexis S. Quina (center), LANDBANK Vice President Jimmy P. Arco (2nd from left) and Assistant Vice President Josephine Mercadal (3rd from left) lead the ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the new Balingasag Public Market (rightphoto) financed by the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) in Barangay Waterfall. BALINGASAG, Misamis Oriental – The Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) joined the inauguration of the new world-class Balingasag Public Market in Barangay Waterfall, which is expected to be a center of commerce for the people of Balingasag and its neighboring towns. Balingasag Municipal Mayor Alexis S. Quina alongside LANDBANK Vice President Jimmy P. Arco and Assistant Vice President Josephine B. Mercadal, led the inauguration on 8 March 2023 to formally open the facility to residents and vendors. LANDBANK financed the milestone infrastructure project with a P150 million loan in 2020. The building can accommodate 303 stalls, covering sections for fish, meat, vegetable, fruit, dry goods, and grocery items, among others. The new public market will also benefit more than 3,000 small farmers and fishers from the municipalities of Balingasag, Jasaan, Lagonglong and Salay. “We look forward to servicing more of Balingasag’s growth requirements to generate economic opportunities and deliver essential public services. In partnership with LGUs nationwide, LANDBANK will continue to support strategic initiatives to help advance local communities,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia Cayosa Borromeo. Throughout the years, LANDBANK has been part of the growth story and progress of the Municipality of Balingasag. It has financed various development projects of the LGU, including the Balingasag People’s Palace in 2010 and the Balingasag Bus Terminal in 2015. During the inauguration, Mayor Quina shared his appreciation and gratitude for LANDBANK's continuing trust and support for the local government, and touched on plans to tap the Bank anew for the construction of Balingasag’s Municipal Gym. LANDBANK provides convenient banking services to Balingasag residents, including payroll services to local government employees. Last December 28, 2022, the Bank inaugurated the LANDBANK Balingasag Branch, complemented by an offsite ATM located at the People's Palace. LANDBANK remains the biggest development partner of the LGU sector. As of end-December 2022, the Bank has extended a total of P91.5 billion in outstanding loans to LGUs nationwide, towards building resilient and progressive local communities.
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LANDBANK to rollout hubs for hassle-free online tax payments
As the deadline for the filing of income tax returns draws near, the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) will be setting up accessible stations to help taxpayers settle their dues in an easy and convenient manner through LANDBANK’s online payment channels. In partnership with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), LANDBANK Hubs will be stationed within select Revenue District Offices (RDO) nationwide to facilitate online payments of Income Tax Returns (ITRs) during work days from April 1 to 17, 2023 at 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The LANDBANK Hubs aim to assist taxpayers to remit their taxes much easier online through the BIR’s Electronic Filing and Payment System (eFPS), and LANDBANK’s own e-Tax Payment System (eTPS) and Link.BizPortal channels. "Through these hubs, we hope to make the process of paying taxes more convenient and accessible for everyone. LANDBANK remains committed to supporting the BIR by helping taxpayers fulfill their obligations and contribute to nation-building," said LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia Cayosa Borromeo. To accommodate more taxpayers, select LANDBANK branches nationwide will also extend regular banking hours from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and will be open on Saturdays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM to accept tax payments. The complete list of LANDBANK Hubs and branches that will be open for extended hours is available on LANDBANK’s official website (www.landbank.com) and social media accounts. The LANDBANK and BIR have been working hand in hand to boost digital tax collection and provide taxpayers efficient and convenient payment platforms. The Bank’s digital banking channels are in sync with the BIR’s tax filing facility, in line with the National Government’s Ease of Doing Business initiative. As of 31 December 2022, the LANDBANK eTPS and Link.BizPortal have facilitated a total of more than 1.2 million tax payment transactions with total value of P117.3 billion.
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LANDBANK guides visually impaired performers through COVID ordeal
KEEP THE MUSIC PLAYXING: Members of the Bohol Persons with Disability (PWD) Workers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) continue to play at the Tagbilaran Pier with support from the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK). BOHOL – Amidst the daily hustle and bustle in this Province’s major airport and seaport terminals, an ensemble of visually impaired musicians entertains and comforts passengers with their soothing voices and pitch-perfect harmonies. With their distinct black glasses, acoustic guitars and percussions, these talented individuals perform old to contemporary hits from early morning to seven o’clock in the evening, making the trips of visitors a memorable experience. Performing for arriving and departing passengers serves as the primary source of income for 41-year-old Junare “Jun” A. Baculio to sustain the daily needs of his family. Jun also leads fellow visually impaired performers as the general manager of the Bohol Persons with Disability (PWD) Workers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC), which started in 2016 and is composed of 63 members with different disabilities. The Bohol PWD Workers MPC mainly sources funds from busking at different local airports and seaports, including the Bohol-Panglao International Airport and the Tagbilaran Airport and Pier. They also operate four massage parlors where other physically challenged members offer various massage services. The co-op’s lending services have also delivered significant relief to its members, especially when facing financial difficulties due to unexpected situations. They enjoy loans with zero interest rate for their needs, instead of previously relying on loan sharks that charge as high as 20% interest per month. The pandemic’s silencing effect However, nothing could have prepared the cooperative from the COVID-19 pandemic, which hit the tourism sector hard and drastically reduced passenger traffic. The once jam-packed airport and seaport terminals turned into deserted hubs without any signs of activity. For the members of the Bohol PWD Workers MPC, this meant putting their entertaining melodies into pause and soothing massage services on hold. And as silence filled the airports and seaports that were once alive with their music, the co-op members struggled to make ends meet and provide for their families. With their performances halted, members were left with no other source of daily income, which also cut off the co-op’s source of funding for their relending activities. “Parang huminto lahat dahil sa pandemya. Lahat kami ay nawalan ng pagkakakitaan, simula sa pagkanta sa mga terminals hanggang sa pagmamasahe. Pero tuloy pa rin ang buhay, naghanap kami ng iba pang pwedeng pagkakitaan at lumapit kami sa iba’t ibang organisasyon,” Jun Baculio recounts. LANDBANK helps show the light The Bohol PWD Workers MPC turned to the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) to help them sustain their livelihood and endure the pandemic. As the co-op’s reliable partner over the years, LANDBANK maintains a strong relationship with the co-op, with a total loan exposure amounting to P1.1 million. LANDBANK first extended a helping hand to the co-op in 2017 through a loan worth P830,000.00, for the purchase of a service vehicle and to augment the working capital of their relending business. With their new service vehicle, the members are conveniently shuttled to the airports and seaports, including other areas and communities where they are tapped to perform. The Bohol PWD Workers (MPC) availed of a loan from LANDBANK to purchase a service vehicle to conveniently shuttle their membersfrom their respective houses to their workplaces. Since the pandemic significantly decreased their income, LANDBANK approved the restructuring of the co-op’s existing loan in 2022 under the I-RESCUE (Interim REhabilitation Support to Cushion Unfavorably affected Enterprises by COVID-19) Lending Program with a lower interest rate. The co-op’s existing rediscounting line was also converted into a term loan amounting to P300,000 under the Program, to help cover the daily necessities of the members’ families during the pandemic. “We are very much thankful to LANDBANK. They patiently catered to our financing needs to make the co-op successful, fruitful and productive. Hindi kami nahihirapang lumapit sa kanila,” said Jun. As the country reopened several tourist destinations, the cooperative also made a successful comeback to the airports and seaports, in stride with the economy’s continuing resurgence from the pandemic. Last January, the Bohol PWD Workers MPC was able to fully pay its restructured term loan with LANDBANK and partially paid in advance its converted rediscounting line. Today, the co-op looks to expand its operations by tapping the Bank’s assistance anew for lot acquisition and the construction of its new head office. LANDBANK has continued to support the financial requirements of the Bohol PWD Workers MPC along with the whole cooperative sector. As of 31 January 2023, LANDBANK’s outstanding loans to the sector have reached P66.6 billion serving over 1,360 co-ops nationwide.
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LANDBANK opens new credit window to support coconut farmers
In line with supporting the country’s coconut industry, the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) is offering a new affordable credit facility to coconut farmers to increase production and income especially in coconut-producing communities nationwide. Under the LANDBANK Coconut Farmers and Industry Development (CFID) Lending Program, eligible coconut farmers, cooperatives and associations can access financing for various projects, including the establishment of intercrops and poultry or livestock integration in coconut farms. Individual coconut farmers can use the loan to increase production and working capital, to acquire machines and equipment, and establish necessary facilities. Coconut cooperatives and associations can also utilize the financing for relending and rediscounting to their members. The LANDBANK CFID Lending Program supports the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), which outlines the policies and directions to rehabilitate and modernize the Philippine coconut industry. "The CFID Lending Program forms part of the National Government’s whole-of-nation approach towards providing meaningful investments to the coconut industry. LANDBANK remains committed to providing accessible and affordable credit to coconut farmers nationwide to help improve their livelihood," said LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia Cayosa Borromeo. Under the CFID Lending Program, LANDBANK will provide short-term and long-term loans of at least P1 million, with a fixed affordable interest rate of 2% per annum. The loan program has a total P333.3 million fund composed of P83.3 million or 25% from LANDBANK funds and P250 million or 75% from the Credit Component Allocation under the Coconut Farmers Industry Trust Fund (CFITF) Act, which was signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte in February 2021. The LANDBANK CFID Lending Program will run until 2071 to accommodate as many players from the coconut industry as possible. Interested borrowers may contact the nearest open LANDBANK Lending Center or Branch nationwide, or call LANDBANK’s customer service hotline at (02) 8-405-7000 or at PLDT Domestic Toll Free 1-800-10-405-7000.
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LANDBANK-funded bridges, hospital help boost Ilagan City’s dev’t
(left photo) The LANDBANK-financed Baculud Overflow Bridge in Ilagan City, Isabela, allows for easier and safer transportation for residents and vehicles from the City’s northeastern barangays to its Centro Poblacion Barangay Cluster. (right photo) From having a small infirmary solely catering to the medical needs of Ilagueños, the Ilagan LGU also tapped LANDBANK to fund the construction of the City of Ilagan Medical Center (CIMC) building to widen healthcare access in the City. ILAGAN, Isabela – From being one of the poorest municipalities in Isabela over a decade ago, this first-class City now boasts of a vibrant and fast-growing economy driven by major infrastructure projects financed by the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK). Under the leadership of City Mayor Josemarie L. Diaz, the local government unit (LGU) of Ilagan and LANDBANK maintain a strong partnership geared towards the development of the City, with a total loan exposure amounting to P3.5 billion. “Talagang malaki ang naitulong ng LANDBANK sa amin. Halos lahat ng improvement sa Ilagan City ay dahil sa aming pakikipagtulungan sa LANDBANK,” said Mayor Diaz. In support of Ilagan’s development plan, LANDBANK financed the construction of four essential bridges in the City, including the Baculud Overflow Bridge in Brgy. Baculud and the Cabisera 8 Overflow Bridge in Brgy. Santa Maria. These two overflow bridges significantly increased the mobility of Ilagueños, who previously used boats and bamboo rafts to travel across rivers to reach other parts of the City. The bridges also improved the access of residents from remote barangays to basic and support services, such as to their local hospital and public market. LANDBANK likewise financed the concreting of road networks in Ilagan City to enhance the connectivity between its 91 barangays, which is already 90% completed as of end-January 2023. Built with street lamps and concrete drainage, the concrete road network has made transportation safer and more efficient even in remote areas, especially for farmers who previously struggled to transport their agricultural produce to the market. Facilities for healthcare, recreation, and public services LANDBANK also supports the LGU’s priority projects to provide better healthcare and public services. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the LANDBANK-financed City of Ilagan Medical Center (CIMC) was opened to initially serve as an isolation facility for COVID patients. From having a small infirmary, the enhanced 100-bed CIMC now provides advanced medical services, such as endoscopy, radiology, and hemodialysis. The hospital has already received three International Standardization Organization (ISO) Certifications for Quality Management System, Environment Management System and Occupational Health and Management System. In 2007, LANDBANK approved a P65-million loan to fund the construction of Ilagan’s Municipal Hall – now a City Hall – in Brgy. San Vicente. For the safety and convenience of its constituents and local government employees, LANDBANK likewise financed the construction of the then Ilagan Municipal Hall (now a City Hall) and multi-purpose barangay halls in the City. Other projects of the LGU backed by the Bank include a sanitary landfill for sustainable waste disposal; a new public market that serves as a central hub for vendors; and daycare centers for children. The Ilagan LGU also partnered with the Bank to finance the construction of recreational facilities in the City, including the new Ilagan Sports Complex, a local mall and hotel, as well as a multi-purpose commercial building, all of which generate significant revenue for the LGU. The modern Ilagan Sports Complex funded by LANDBANK hosts national tournaments for various sports and houses a track and field oval certified by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF). P900 million of the LGU’s total loan will finance lot acquisition in the barangays of Alibagu, Marana 1st and Lullutan for various development projects, including the construction of 94 housing units in Alibagu. The loan will also be utilized for the expansion of the Ilagan City Hotel and Convention Center, as well as the establishment of CIMC’s Contagious Disease Building. This will also fund the construction of a public market building in Brgy. Hacienda San Antonio and a bagsakan center with cold storage for agricultural products in Brgy. Marana 1st. “Simula nung kami ay isang municipality pa lamang, nagtiwala na ang LANDBANK sa amin. Kasama namin ang LANDBANK na lumaki at lumago, at ngayon, we can already provide complete and quality services for the welfare of our people. Kaya malaki ang aming pasasalamat sa LANDBANK,” Mayor Diaz added. With the help of LANDBANK, the LGU’s assets grew from P700 million in 2007 to P7 billion in 2022. LANDBANK remains the biggest development partner of LGUs, in fulfilment of the Bank’s mandate to spur countryside development in stride with nation-building. As of end-2022, the Bank’s outstanding loans to LGUs nationwide have reached P91.5 billion in support of local development projects, which include agri-related infrastructure, hospitals, schools, and utilities.
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PBBM honors LANDBANK for outstanding public service
(left photo) President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. (2nd from left), with CSC Commissioner Aileen Lizada (leftmost), bestows the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award to LANDBANK for its Digital Onboarding System (DOBS) in Malacañan Palace on 8 March 2023. Conferred with the award are LANDBANK Senior Vice Presidents Althon C. Ferolino (3rd from left) and Sylvia C. Lim (not in photo), Vice President Grace Ofelia Lovely V. Dayo (5th from left), Assistant Vice President Aurelia M. Lavilla (4th from left), and Division Chief Carla B. Mirabueno (6th from left). (right photo) Customer Associate Reymond D. Gonzales also receives the Dangal ng Bayan Award for his exemplary performance as a Roving Teller during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photos courtesy of the Civil Service Commission) President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. conferred to the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) two recognitions for its excellence, dedication and commitment to public service during the awarding ceremony in Malacañang Palace on 8 March 2023. The President led the awards rites of the Civil Service Commission’s (CSC) annual Honor Awards Program (HAP), which recognizes models of exceptional service and aims to motivate other public servants to enhance their performance and become more involved in public service. “I congratulate you, not only for your award, but I congratulate you for the service that you have given to the Filipino people. You have clearly demonstrated that a compassionate and genuine heart lies at the center of your efforts,” said President Marcos in addressing the awardees. LANDBANK won the Presidential Lingkod Bayan (PLB) award for its client-centered and multi-awarded digital platform, the Digital Onboarding System (DOBS), which has helped simplify the account enrolment process and reduced the account opening time of customers. As of 31 December 2022, the DOBS has facilitated the opening of 3.6 million accounts, including accounts opened for LANDBANK’s wholly-owned subsidiary, the Overseas Filipino Bank (OFBank), in servicing the continued rise in demand for responsive digital banking services. The PLB Award recognizes individuals or groups for exceptional or extraordinary contributions resulting from an idea or performance that had a nationwide impact on public interest, security, and patrimony. The LANDBANK DOBS Team is led by Senior Vice President Althon C. Ferolino, with members Senior Vice President Sylvia C. Lim, Vice President Grace Ofelia Lovely V. Dayo, Assistant Vice President Aurelia M. Lavilla, and Division Chief Carla B. Mirabueno. Meanwhile, Reymond D. Gonzales was honored with the Outstanding Public Officials and Employees Award or the Dangal ng Bayan (DNB) Award for his exemplary performance as a Customer Associate (Roving Teller) during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Amid mobility restrictions and health risks, Gonzales ensured that LANDBANK Branches had sufficient cash requirements to service customers in Zamboanga City and Zamboanga Sibugay, including the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. The DNB Award is conferred on an individual for the performance of extraordinary acts of public service and consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior. “We are deeply honored to receive these awards, which recognize LANDBANK’s steadfast commitment to providing responsive services beyond banking to all our customers. We are inspired to further intensify our development efforts towards serving the nation,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia Cayosa Borromeo. The CSC Honor Awards are the highest recognition given by the National Government to individuals or groups who have shown excellence, dedication, and commitment to public service.
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‘Iskolar ng LANDBANK’ to accept students from poorest provinces
The Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) will soon accept applications for its new scholarship program and select scholars from the poorest 60 provinces in the country. Under the Iskolar ng LANDBANK Program, the Bank will select the scholars from nominations endorsed by the Bank’s partner-organizations composed of farmers and fishers. This new selection process was announced after the Bank received numerous queries from interested applicants following the program’s launch last February. “We want the Iskolar ng LANDBANK Program to create meaningful impact in the lives of deserving students who really need assistance the most. We are now reaching out to our partner cooperatives, associations, and organizations in the agri sector to nominate dependents from among their members,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia Cayosa Borromeo. The Iskolar ng LANDBANK Program is designed to assist deserving dependents of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) and small farmers and fisheries nationwide. From 2023 to 2028, LANDBANK will select sixty scholars each year, to be provided with P100,000 each per year to cover allowance and expenses for books, clothing, and other course requirements. Special cash incentives will also be awarded to scholars who will graduate with honors. Eligible applicants shall be the children or grandchildren of ARBs or small farmers and fishers who are graduating high school students, with a minimum average grade of 90% or belonging to the top 10% of their class. Applicants must also have a letter of endorsement from their senior high school principal; must not enjoy any other financial assistance, grant, or scholarship from other external sources; must pass the admission requirements of partner State Colleges and Universities (SUCs); and whose annual total family income must not exceed Php 300,000.00. Successful applicants have 12 eligible courses to choose from, namely horticulture, animal science, food technology, data analytics, information technology, accounting, agribusiness management, and agricultural, IT, industrial or management, civil, and mechanical engineering. Iskolar graduates will be also offered on-the job (OJT) training in LANDBANK Branches and Lending Centers, including the Bank’s partner agencies and institutions. The Iskolar ng LANDBANK Program carries the theme: “600@60: Developing Scholars and Nurturing Talents Towards Serving the Nation,” representing the Bank’s target 600 scholar graduates—which includes graduates from the Bank’s previous scholarship program—in celebration of LANDBANK’s 60th anniversary this year.
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