TOWARDS advancing inclusive and quality education, and corporate social responsibility (CSR), Landbank and the University of the Philippines (UP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide employee-funded scholarships, faculty development grants, and campus-wide digital banking services.
Under the MOU, Landbank will support the University’s Lingap-Iskolar Program by providing scholarships to select students from geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (Gidas), as well as support for professorial chair and faculty grants for UP educators.
The initiative is uniquely fully-funded through voluntary donations from the more than 12,000 Landbank employees nationwide, aligned with the Bank’s commitment to CSR.
“We are proud to walk alongside UP in shaping the next generation of leaders, changemakers, and nation-builders. Whether by funding education or supporting faculty development, Landbank is committed to helping expand access to quality education and financial services — especially in underserved communities,” said Landbank President and CEO Lynette Ortiz in a statement.
UP President Angelo Jimenez and Landbank Executive Vice President Leila Martin led the ceremonial signing of the MOU on August 1, 2025 at Quezon Hall, UP Diliman Campus in Quezon City.
They were joined by UP Executive Vice President Leo D.P. Cubillan, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Ma. Shari Niña G. Oliquino, Office of Admissions Director Francisco N. De Los Reyes, and Landbank Senior Vice Presidents Marilou L. Villafranca and Catherine Rowena B. Villanueva as official witnesses to the partnership.
CSR and Digital Access Integration
The partnership reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to empower Filipino students and educators towards progressive, and inclusive national development, aligned with the Bank’s CSR Pillars of S.E.R.V.E. -- Sustainability, Environment, Resilience, Volunteerism, and Education.
The collaboration includes the rollout of Landbank’s Cash-Lite Campus initiative, which promotes cashless transactions across the UP community.
The program offers students, faculty, staff, campus vendors, and public transport providers access to digital banking services, including online account opening via the Landbank Mobile Banking App, QR payments, and e-commerce features, ensuring faster, safer, and more convenient daily transactions.
Support for Admissions and Employability
Landbank also assisted in promoting the UP College Admission Test (UPCAT) through its branches and online channels, and provided free transportation for examinees in provincial areas during the August 2-3, 2025 test days.
The bank will likewise offer internship opportunities and prioritize UP graduates for employment across Landbank, its subsidiaries, and foundation.
Meanwhile, UP will identify scholarship and grant beneficiaries and help roll out Landbank’s financial education and digital banking services through campus-wide engagements. (PR)