THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is encouraging the public residing in areas under Alert Level 3 to use e-banking and digital payment services for safer and more efficient banking transactions.
It also assured the public of its continued provision of essential services.
The government’s Covid-19 Task Force has placed the National Capital Region, Bulacan, Cavite and Rizal under Alert Level 3 until January 15, 2022. It also heightened the quarantine restrictions of 14 more areas to Level 3 including Lapu-Lapu City, Dagupan City, City of Santiago, Cagayan province, Olongapo City, Angeles City, Bataan, Pampanga, Zambales, Naga City, Iloilo City, Batangas, Lucena City and Baguio City.
Lapu-Lapu City is one of the areas badly-hit by Typhoon Odette on December 16. Power outage in Mactan Island hasn’t been fully restored and there is still zero to limited telco signal.
Moreover, the BSP has also directed BSP-supervised financial institutions to strictly observe minimum health protocols to safeguard the safety and well-being of bank personnel and customers.
Its key services such as open market operations, PhilPaSS settlements and servicing of cash withdrawals will remain unhampered.
In addition, the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) also assured the public that its member banks are committed to provide continuing services despite the recent rise of Covid-19 cases in the country.
“In light of the current situation, our member banks are enhancing their health protocols to protect both clients and employees from the virus. These may include temporarily closing down certain branches and shortening operating hours for routine cleaning and disinfection,” the BAP said in a statement.
These enhancements, according to the organization, are in addition to existing health protocols strictly implemented by its member banks in their branches, such as the mandatory wearing of face masks and social distancing in all premises.
“Your safety is our top priority,” the BAP noted.
“We encourage clients to check their respective bank’s website, social media channels and announcements for further updates and information on operating hours and banking services. Online and mobile facilities are fully operational and available for clients’ convenience and protection,” it added.