BSP: Masbate banks operational after Opong but some ATMs still offline

All banks in Masbate have resumed operations but some automated teller machines (ATMs) are still offline due to connectivity issues in the wake of the devastation from Typhoon Opong (international name: Bualoi), the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Thursday afternoon.

In an advisory, the central bank said it received a report from the Masbate Bankers Association (MBA) that all banks in the province are operational as of noon on Thursday, October 2, and may service withdrawals and other transactions over the counter.

“The BSP will continue to monitor banking operations in Masbate as the province recovers from the typhoon, in line with the central bank’s commitment to efficient delivery of financial services,” the advisory read.

Earlier, the central bank said it can accommodate emergency withdrawals, including cash-out services of money services businesses, through its Legazpi branch if needed.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday said it could take some time to restore the power supply in Masbate, with the government looking for ways to provide cash to residents as banks are still unable to operate.

Opong made landfall early Friday last week, leaving thousands of families affected across the province. Masbate was placed under a state of calamity on September 28. — JMA, GMA Integrated News