I had the chance to attend BDO’s Kapihan Forum with the BDO Heads. And honestly, listening to them talk about how banking is evolving was such an enlightening experience.
Here are the services that I personally connected with the most:
Branch Banking
It’s now easier than ever to bank at any BDO branch. They’ve introduced machines like the Universal Teller Machine (which lets you deposit checks, pay bills, and withdraw without lining up at the counter) and the Service Assist Machine (no more manual forms). They even have online branch booking now. So no more wasting half your day in line. I also found out you can open an account online, which is honestly a game-changer for people like me who doesn’t like paperwork.
BDO Life
This one hit a little close to home for me. This is a reminder for us that while we all have our Plan A, such as career goals, dream homes, travel plans, life can throw unexpected curveballs. And that’s where life insurance (aka your Plan B) comes in. It’s about protecting the people you love when things don’t go as planned. It made me seriously consider finally sitting down to plan ours.
And here’s a quick rundown of the other services offered:
BDO Remit
BDO Remit isn’t just about sending money. It’s about empowering OFWs and their families through services like Credit to BDO Kabayan Savings and financial literacy programs in partnership with OWWA. I loved hearing about how they’re not just focused on remittances, but on helping OFWs start businesses and build a better life back home.
BDO Trust and Investments Group (TIG)
If you’ve ever been curious about investments, BDO offers Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITFs), retirement fund options, and even personalized portfolios. It’s about growing your wealth while getting expert advice along the way.
BDO Pay
This is a super convenient app that lets you pay straight from your BDO account or credit card. No need to cash in. You can scan to pay, send money, pay bills, split bills with friends, request money, buy load, and even withdraw or deposit cash using a QR code. What I really like about it is you can send money to other BDO accounts is free, and if you’re sending to other banks or e-wallets, it’s just ₱10.
Cash Management Services (CMS)
This is basically BDO’s way of helping businesses handle their money smarter and easier. With BDO Business Online, you can manage payments, collections, and check your finances anytime, anywhere. They also have a Payroll Package that makes salary days hassle-free for both employers and employees. Plus, employees get access to BDO services and even free life insurance. What’s cool is it also helps unbanked SME workers open their first bank accounts, which is a huge deal for financial inclusion.
Cash Agad
This is BDO’s way of bringing banking to places that don’t have easy access to branches or ATMs. It lets people withdraw cash and do basic bank transactions at mini groceries, water stations, pharmacies, and small shops using POS machines. With over 12,000 partner agents all over the country, it not only makes banking more accessible but also helps small business owners earn extra by becoming ‘automated tao machines’ for their communities.
I went home realizing how much banking has changed. And it’s still changing to keep up with how we live now. From making things super convenient online to helping out communities, BDO’s really covering everything. Honestly, it made me proud to be a BDO client and a lot more excited about where banking in our country is headed.
