BSP says it is working with Odette-affected banks for restoration of full ops

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Wednesday it is closely coordinating with banks in the Visayas region affected by Typhoon Odette regarding the resumption of their full operations.

“To fast-track their return to full operations, affected banks are working with utility companies and other web service providers,” the BSP said in a statement.

“The banking community in affected areas looks forward to the immediate full restoration of utility and internet services that will enable the resumption of banking operations,” it added.

The central bank said that in the interim, affected banks have reported to the BSP that they have adopted shortened banking hours following power, telecommunication, and internet disruptions caused by the typhoon.

“In view of this, the BSP also advises residents and consumers in these areas to adopt e-banking and digital payment services when possible and transact in banks and branch-lite units located in nearby areas where services are fully operational,” it said. 

Odette caused widespread devastation in the provinces along its path, among them Cebu and Bohol in Visayas. The death toll due to Odette reached 406, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said in its situation report on Tuesday. Sixty-five individuals remain missing, while 1,265 were injured. Meanwhile, 2,335,757 families were affected in 11 regions and 38 provinces. —Ted Cordero/KG, GMA News