Some banks shorten operating hours as COVID-19 cases surge

Some banks have shortened their operating hours, as the COVID-19 cases in the country continue to rise and the daily tally reaches record highs.

In separate advisories, local lenders said they will operate on adjusted hours as a precaution for their clients and personnel, as the country on Saturday recorded a record-high 26,458 cases.

BDO Unibank Inc.

Branches in NCR will close at 3 p.m. starting Monday, January 10, 2022.

Branches will no longer be open on Saturday starting January 15, 2022.

“Our clients’ safety is very important to us. Our safety protocols in the branches remain intact and our employees are vaccinated,” it said.

Philippine National Bank (PNB)

Nationwide branch banking hours will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., except for mall-based and NAIA branches starting Monday, January 10, 2022.

Internet banking and mobile banking will be available for day-to-day transactions.

PNB will also roll out its Bank on Wheels service to areas without ATMs.

Other banks have yet to announce any changes in their operating hours.

As of January 8, 2022, the Philippines’ COVID-19 positive rate was at 43.7%, significantly higher than the World Health Organization’s requirement target of less than 5%.

The country’s active case count stands at 102,017; recoveries at 2.782 million; and deaths at 52,135. — Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas/BM, GMA News