EastWest’s "Further For You" in Action: Spreading Hope and Empowering Dreams Through Young Focus

EastWest volunteers share moments of joy and learning with children from Young Focus, embodying the spirit of giving and community through the Cards of Hope initiative.

 Beyond banking, EastWest is committed to going further and making a meaningful impact in the communities it serves. This came to life through Cards of Hope, a heartfelt initiative that turned a simple holiday tradition into an opportunity to change lives.

EastWest employees and internal clubs—EastWest Milers, EastWest Click, and EastWest Voices—rallied together to support Young Focus, an organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. Instead of traditional holiday decorations, EastWest employees purchased intricately designed ornaments and postcard sets, knowing that every peso would go toward scholarships and essential learning resources for children from Smokey Mountain.

For EastWest, the partnership with Young Focus went beyond financial aid—it created opportunities that equip the next generation with the tools to shape their future. “Education reshapes destinies, creating pathways to a future filled with possibility,” said Martin Reyes, EastWest’s Head of Marketing. “Our support for Young Focus isn’t just about giving—it’s about equipping these children with the means to build a better life.”

A Walk of Dreams: Witnessing Resilience and Hope

EastWest volunteers joined the Walk of Dreams and visited various communities in Tondo to connect with residents and better understand their daily challenges. Experiencing the children’s struggles firsthand gave them a stronger perspective on the impact of their efforts.

“Coming from the visit, it was a lot to take in,” shared one volunteer. “But what struck me most was their tenacity—their unshaken drive to learn, to dream, and to push forward despite the odds. Their determination was both humbling and inspiring.”

The experience deepened the Bank’s belief that real change happens when communities come together—not just through financial aid, but through shared moments of kindness, learning, and connection.

Turning Generosity Into Action

As EastWest celebrates its 30th anniversary, initiatives like Cards of Hope exemplify the Bank’s enduring mission to go Further For You—beyond banking, beyond business, and into the heart of communities in need.

Through this initiative, EastWest employees proved that even the simplest gestures—a card, an ornament, a shared dream—can make a lasting difference. One child, one opportunity, and one future at a time, Cards of Hope is turning generosity into action, ensuring that the next 30 years are just as impactful as the first.

EastWest, Puregold, and Visa Launch Co-Branded Credit Card for the Everyday Filipino

If you're a regular Puregold shopper, you might want to pay attention—because your grocery run just got way more rewarding.

In a collab that screams power move, EastWest Bank, Puregold, and Visa have teamed up to launch the EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Credit Card—a game-changing product designed to help Filipinos earn real rewards just by doing what they already do best: shopping smart.

Why “Always Panalo”?

The card’s name says it all. Whether you're stocking up on rice, cooking oil, or that one item you forgot for the fifth time—every swipe at Puregold (and even outside it) earns you points. For every ₱30 spent, you get ₱1 reward, and you can rack up to ₱3,000 per month. And the best part? These points go directly to your Puregold P-wallet, so you can literally use them for your next grocery haul.

No gimmicks. No confusing mechanics. Just actual cashback on essentials.

“This card is for the everyday Filipino—those who take care of families, run small businesses, or just want more bang for their buck,” says Lawrence Lee, EVP and Head of Consumer Lending at EastWest Bank.

 

Built for the Masses, Backed by Giants

Let’s be real: most credit cards in the market are either too exclusive, too complicated, or just not relatable. The Always Panalo card flips that script.

With Puregold’s massive base of 2 million First Club members and 500+ branches nationwide, this card is tailored for mass and mass-affluent customers—aka most of us.

“This isn’t just another credit card. It’s for the masa—our loyal suki shoppers,” shares Ivy Piedad, Head of Marketing at Puregold. “We want to give them value, not just convenience.”

Even Visa is all-in on the mission to democratize digital payments and financial access.

“We’re enhancing behaviors people already have. You buy groceries anyway—now you earn while you do it,” Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager, Visa adds.

Application? Super Simple.

No need to guess where or how to apply. EastWest is setting up credit card application booths inside Puregold branches, so you can shop and sign up in one go. Yes, there are standard KYC requirements (because it's a bank, after all), but the whole process is built to be seamless, especially for first-timers.

“We know a lot of Filipinos have never owned a credit card,” Lee says. “This is their stepping stone. It’s access made easy.”

The Backstory: Two Years in the Making

This wasn’t a rush job. The EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Credit Card was two years in the making, including one full year dedicated to infrastructure, tech integration, and streamlining the rewards system.

The goal? A financial product that’s actually useful, not just shiny.

TL;DR: Why This Card Slaps

✅ Earn ₱1 for every ₱30 spent
✅ Rewards go straight to your Puregold P-wallet
✅ Redeem up to ₱3,000 worth of rewards per month
✅ Apply in-store at your nearest Puregold
✅ No change in your routine—just better value for your money

So next time you're doing a grocery run and someone says “Gastos nanaman!” you can proudly say:
“Hindi, rewards to.”

Watch here the full video interview

Chasing Dreams, One Step at a Time: The EastWest Dream Run 2025 Goes Further for You to Celebrate its 30th Anniversary

 Get ready to lace up and hit the pavement! EastWest, in partnership with RUNRIO, one of the country’s leading race organizers, is bringing the highly anticipated EastWest Dream Run 2025 to three key cities: April 6 at Azuela Cove, Davao, May 4 at City Di Mare, Cebu, and June 15 at Filinvest City, Alabang.

Choose Your Dream Run

The EastWest Dream Run 2025 invites runners of all ages and fitness levels to join an unforgettable race experience. Participants can choose from 1K, 2K, 5K, 10K, and an exclusive 30K category—the only run of its kind to feature this distance in celebration of EastWest’s 30th Anniversary. Adding to the excitement, the event also introduces a special 1K dog category for pet lovers, making it a fun and inclusive gathering for the whole family, including your furry friends.

Set against the scenic backdrops of Davao, Cebu, and Manila, the EastWest Dream Run symbolizes the pursuit of bigger and bolder dreams. By hosting the Dream Run in three key cities, EastWest strengthens its commitment to hyperlocal engagement, bringing meaningful and accessible experiences to communities across the country. 

Every participant will receive a premium race kit, complete with a limited-edition Dream Run singlet and a loot bag. Finishers of the 30K category will also earn a special Finisher’s Shirt to mark their achievement.

All finishers will take home a specially designed medal inspired by a dreamcatcher, a symbol of EastWest’s mission of turning aspirations into reality. After crossing the finish line, runners can look forward to exploring the EastWest Dream Run Village that will offer live entertainment, food trucks, and a vibrant festive feel—a true celebration of fitness, community, and camaraderie.

To make the experience even more rewarding, top runners in each category will win exciting prizes from EastWest. Plus, a portion of the event proceeds will go towards supporting EastWest’s community initiatives, making every step count toward a greater cause.

“At EastWest, every dream starts with a single step. From owning your first car to growing your business, dreams come in many forms. The first-ever EastWest Dream Run is a celebration of ambition and the milestones that define our personal journeys. Each stride you take represents a step closer to achieving your goals, and EastWest is here to support you at every stage,” shared Martin Reyes, SVP & Head of Marketing and Cash Management. “As we celebrate our 30th Anniversary, we’re going Further for You by expanding to Cebu and Davao—bringing the thrill of the race to more runners. Whether you're a marathoner, a weekend jogger, or lacing up for the first time, this is your chance to push further and enjoy the run.”

Echoing this excitement, Coach Rio de la Cruz, Founder of RUNRIO, highlighted the uniqueness of the event. “The EastWest Dream Run 2025 brings something fresh to the running community. The 30K category offers a rare challenge for runners looking to test their endurance in honor of EastWest’s 30th year, while pet-lovers can look forward to creating unforgettable moments with their fur buddies, making the EastWest Dream Run not just a race but a truly special experience for every member of the household—whether on two legs or four.  From first-time participants to seasoned athletes, this is an opportunity to come together and embrace the spirit of community.”

Register Now – Early Bird Rates are until February 15!

Don’t miss out on this exciting race! Sign up now and enjoy exclusive early bird rates until February 15, 2025. Registration is open via the official event website: eastwestbanker.com/dream-run2025. Stay updated by following @EastWestBanker on Facebook.

The EastWest Dream Run 2025 is a major milestone in EastWest’s journey of going Further for You, encouraging Filipinos to chase their dreams—one step at a time. Join the race and be part of an exclusive and special experience that celebrates passion, endurance, and community. 

Rooted in Responsibility: EastWest Rural Bank Plants Seeds for a Greener Tomorrow in Davao

  To mark its 11th Anniversary, EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB) organized an employee-led tree-planting activity last November 29, 2024, in partnership with the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO). 

The event, held at Sitio Malamboon, Barangay 76-A Bucana, Davao City, saw EWRB volunteers planting 100 mangrove seedlings to strengthen the area’s ecosystem, create more public awareness, and reinforce the importance of mangroves in preserving coastal health.

This initiative highlights EWRB's focus on environmental sustainability and community engagement. Mangroves are vital for protecting coastlines from erosion, fostering biodiversity, and acting as natural defenses against storms and rising sea levels.

By planting these seedlings, EWRB aims to raise awareness about their vital role in ecosystem preservation and inspire others to take collective responsibility for safeguarding coastal ecosystems.

“EastWest Rural Bank celebrates this milestone by giving back to the environment. This initiative strengthens its connection with the community and reflects its dedication to sustainability and environmental care,” said Cristy G. Hurtado, People Support Lead of EastWest Rural Bank during the event.

Engr. Jasper Castor, Supervising Environmental Management Specialist said “We applaud EastWest Rural Bank for actively contributing to environmental conservation through its mangrove tree-planting initiative. Serving as natural buffers against erosion, mangroves support marine life and promote ecological balance. Efforts like these inspire collective community action to protect natural resources for future generations.”

The recent tree-planting activity, a first for the Bank, is part of EWRB's broader efforts to support hyperlocal initiatives benefiting the environment and the communities it serves. This event emphasizes the importance of collaboration in building a healthier and more sustainable future.

For more updates on EastWest Rural Bank’s initiatives, visit https://www.eastwestruralbank.com.ph/. 

EastWest Recognized at International Finance Awards 2024 with 4 Major Banking Awards

 EastWest continues to make its mark internationally having been recognized with four major awards at the 2024 International Finance Awards. The bank was named Most Innovative Forex Broker and Best Priority Banking Experience, both in its second consecutive year, Best Emerging New Equity Fund Manager and Best Consumer Loan Experience Bank for its Personal Loans, once again solidifying its position as a leader in providing innovative financial solutions and excellent customer service.

The International Finance Awards, a global platform that acknowledges exceptional talent, leadership, and industry expertise, recognized EastWest for its ability to drive innovation and achieve meaningful results through forward-thinking strategies and high-impact financial services that meet evolving market needs.

Most Innovative Forex Broker

EastWest continues to lead in the foreign exchange market, having won the award for Most Innovative Forex Broker for the second consecutive year. This accolade highlights the bank’s ability to provide competitive rates and exceptional value to customers seeking efficient FX conversion solutions.

By maintaining buy-sell spreads that are better than competition, EastWest offers rates that can be up to 70% better than other banks' average. This competitive pricing directly benefits clients, allowing them to maximize their funds when converting foreign currencies.

“We are honored to be recognized once again for our commitment to delivering excellent foreign exchange services. Our goal has always been to provide customers with unparalleled value, and this second consecutive award affirms our success in doing so,” said Mylene Subido, SVP and Head of Securities, Derivatives & FX Distribution and Sales.

EastWest continues to innovate in this area, with plans to further enhance its FX offerings through operational improvements and digitization initiatives, ensuring that clients enjoy seamless, cost-effective forex transactions.

Best Priority Banking Experience

EastWest was also recognized for delivering the Best Priority Banking Experience, also for the second consecutive year, more proof of its growing footprint and expanding services tailored to high-net-worth clients.

With the expansion of Priority Centers in key regions like Davao and Cebu, EastWest has successfully broadened its reach, offering more personalized relationship management to clients across the Philippines.

Key services such as the EastWest Priority Visa Infinite credit card, which provides access to Priority Pass lounges worldwide, and the Visa Platinum debit card, which offers waived ATM withdrawal fees both locally and abroad, have elevated the banking experience for Priority clients. Moreover, the launch of the EastWest Priority Lifestyle series gives clients exclusive access to lifestyle events, further enhancing their banking experience.

“Our success in growing our Priority Banking segment reflects our dedication to delivering world-class premium services and building long-lasting relationships with our clients,” remarked Richard Tamayo, SVP and Head of Wealth Management. “We are committed to continuously elevating the level of service and personalized attention that our clients deserve.”

With double-digit growth in assets under management (AUM) and a 42% three-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in net income before tax, EastWest’s Priority Banking business is poised for even greater success in the coming years.

Best Emerging New Equity Fund Manager

EastWest’s EWA High Dividend Yield Equity Fund has gained considerable traction in the market, earning recognition as the Best Emerging New Equity Fund Manager. This award reflects the bank’s ability to provide strong, consistent returns to its investors, surpassing competitors by over 400 basis points. The fund’s outstanding performance highlights EastWest’s commitment to exceeding investor expectations through a disciplined approach to fund management.

Best Consumer Loan Experience Bank

EastWest’s Personal Loan (PL) was also recognized as the Best Consumer Loan Experience Bank, a nod to the bank’s commitment to transforming the lives of its customers through its financing solutions.

The bank’s PL product stood out as a key pillar in providing affordable and accessible financing to Filipinos across the country. In 2023 alone, the bank saw a 78% increase in new Personal Loan bookings—a clear indication of EastWest’s aggressive acquisition strategy and customer-centric policies.

“Our goal has always been to make dreams a reality through Personal Loans," shared Alastair De Lara, FVP and Personal Loan Business Head.  "With competitive interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and higher than market loan amount, we are proud to be at the forefront of delivering an unparalleled customer experience.”

EastWest’s success in consumer lending can be attributed to its digital acquisition and score-based underwriting models, allowing the bank to extend loans efficiently while mitigating risks.

Looking Forward

With these awards, EastWest continues to celebrate its 30th Anniversary by cementing its position as a leader in the financial services sector. As the bank moves forward, it remains firm in its mission to go “Further For You” by providing innovative solutions that empower individuals and businesses alike, helping them achieve financial success.

For more information about EastWest and its products and services, please visit eastwestbanker.com

EastWest Employee-Athlete Shines in International Dragon Boat Championships, Contributes to Philippines’ Historic Victory

EastWest proudly celebrated the recent achievements of Peter Arreglado, a dedicated member of their Cebu office’s Real and Other Properties Acquired (ROPA) team, who played a key role in leading the Philippines to an impressive victory at the 2024 International Canoe Federation (ICF) Dragon Boat World Championships held in Puerto Princesa. 

The Philippines led the medal standings with an impressive 11 gold medals, showcasing the country’s strength in dragon boat racing and the remarkable talent and resilience of employee-athletes like Peter. Notably, he earned three medals across different events: a silver in the 200-meter small boat, a bronze in the 500-meter small boat, and another bronze in the 2000-meter standard boat.

Peter, who has been an active paddler since 2019, fulfilled a lifelong dream by participating in this prestigious global competition. Selected through a rigorous national selection process, he was honored to be part of the Master’s National Team, representing both the Philippines and EastWest on the international stage. “Being part of this historic event is already like winning a gold medal,” Peter shared, reflecting on the significance of his journey and the pride he feels in contributing to the country’s success.

EastWest extended full support to Peter’s training and preparation, providing him with a flexible work schedule and additional financial assistance to ensure he could balance his professional responsibilities with the demands of intensive training. “EastWest’s support in my training made it possible for me to focus on what mattered—giving my best performance at the World Championships. My success in this competition was made possible thanks to our team effort and their sponsorship in terms of fitness, gym access, personal trainers, and other aspects,” he noted. “This opportunity is a dream come true, and I am deeply grateful for the backing I received from my team and the management at EastWest. I’m so grateful for the chance to work with Eastwest, and for having great leaders, especially from the top level.”

The values of teamwork, resilience, and strong leadership, central to the sport of dragon boat racing, align closely with EastWest’s corporate culture. 

“Dragon boat racing is a team sport that requires unity and persistence, values I experience every day in my work at EastWest,” Peter explained. “Having a supportive environment at work has empowered and allowed me to pursue my passion in both my athletic and professional life.”

In addition to his personal triumphs, Peter hopes that his participation will inspire his colleagues and the broader community at EastWest to engage in even more athletic pursuits and strive for excellence. “I hope that my achievements encourage other sports enthusiasts among EastWest’s workforce and employees, showing the rest of our community that the bank is wholeheartedly supportive of our interests beyond the workplace,” he added.

EastWest Human Resources Head Alfie Suarez explained the significance of Peter’s triumph, sharing that "At EastWest, we believe in fostering a culture that values dedication, resilience, and teamwork—qualities exemplified by our very own Peter Arreglado and the entire Philippine team at the 2024 International Canoe Federation Dragon Boat World Championships. Their hard work and commitment to excellence inspire us all, and we are incredibly proud of Peter’s accomplishment as he brings this international recognition not only to our country but also to the EastWest family."

Looking ahead, Peter envisions more opportunities to represent both the country and EastWest in future competitions, with hopes to participate in upcoming invitational races abroad and continue his dragon boat journey at the next World Championships in Canada.

With his success, and in celebration of its 30th anniversary, EastWest once again reaffirms its commitment to supporting its employees in their personal and professional endeavors, celebrating each milestone as they go “Further for You.” 

Other premiere clubs that EastWest is currently supporting include the EastWest Motion Dance Group, the EastWest Voices Choir, the EastWest Click Photography Club, the EastWest Milers Running Club, the EastWest Racquets Badminton Club, the EastWest Hoops Basketball Club, and the EastWest Pisotivity Club for Investment Enthusiasts.