Insider Spotlight
The Makati site, housed in the former Far East Bank Building, is positioned as BPI’s model for next-generation banking. It aims to remove friction from digital and in-person transactions while reinforcing the bank’s signature hospitality.
Why it matters
BPI consumer banking head Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go said in a press release, the branch was designed with intention: “We want everyone who steps through our doors, whether they are long-time clients, friends, or guests, to feel valued. We want them to experience that genuine hospitality and the NICE values that we carry as Unibankers.”
The big picture
The flagship debuts BPI’s first open-branch layout—a barrier-free design meant to increase visibility, improve collaboration, and reshape how clients interact with bankers. “Looking around, you will see our vision brought to life. This is our first open branch layout, designed specifically to remove barriers,” Go added.
Phygital in action
BPI’s model marries human advice with digital readiness through:
Private meeting pods for tailored financial consultations
A concierge and Quick-Transact lane that guide clients through app-based and assisted digital transactions
Hybrid touchpoints for customers who want either full self-service or hands-on guidance
Experience boosters
The branch introduces lifestyle-forward amenities uncommon in traditional banking spaces, including:
A lobby café kiosk
An outdoor business garden for informal meetings
Five ATMs placed across both entrances for faster access
A dedicated HR Recruitment area designed for a more engaging applicant experience
Sustainability at the center
The Buendia Center facility runs on renewable energy through the Green Option Program, and the branch incorporates daylight optimization, energy-efficient lighting, low-VOC materials, and durable certified finishes. It aligns with BPI’s broader sustainability agenda and supports healthier indoor environments.
Employee-first design
Beyond client spaces, the building features a wellness studio used for internal programs that foster creativity, engagement, and employee development—strengthening its role as a preferred workplace.
BPI positions the Buendia Center flagship as a blueprint for future branches—where physical warmth and digital speed meet to redefine everyday banking. —Vanessa Hidalgo| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
