Dreams Don’t Know Distance: A Story of Hope Shared at the EastWest Dream Run 2025

 They came from opposite ends of the Philippines, united by one dream.

At the EastWest Dream Run 2025 in Manila, two extraordinary groups stood out, not for breaking records, but for breaking barriers. A team of determined runners from the Balingasag, Misamis Oriental traveled more than 1,000 kilometers to be part of the race. Meanwhile, a group of first-time runners from Young Focus Philippines, a non-government organization supporting the youth of Tondo, Manila, laced up their shoes for their very first run.

Though they ran different distances and came from different worlds, both groups embodied the heart of the Dream Run's message: “Dreams don’t know distance.”

From Mindanao to Manila: The Balingasag Steady Pace Runners

For Reinhurd B. Ipan and his fellow runners from the Balingasag Steady Pace Runners, the journey to the Dream Run began long before race day. “We saw a post about a running event that happened at Davao. The participants were so happy, the event was well organized, and most especially, the medal is so unique,” shared Ipan. After missing the Cebu leg, they decided to go all in for Manila: booking plane tickets, clearing schedules, and bringing their families with them.

Their training included a series of local and regional races across Mindanao, from 10Ks to a 50-kilometer ultramarathon. “We had to adjust a lot of factors, especially our schedules at our shops and had to spare some money for it too. We had to, because we've been looking forward to it.”

Runners from the Balingasag Running Community in Misamis Oriental pose proudly after completing the EastWest Dream Run in Manila. Traveling over 1,000 kilometers to be part of the race, the group embodied the event’s spirit that “Dreams Don’t Know Distance.” Their grit, unity, and passion turned each step into a powerful statement of purpose and perseverance.

Race day, however, came with surprises. “We didn’t expect any uphills and downhills, not to mention we had to go through it three times. We thought it would be just a walk in the park!” Ipan laughed. “When we finally saw the finish line, I told myself, ‘Finally, we did it, we did what we came for.’ The crowd was amazing, and the medal speaks for it: the Dream Catcher.”

Their journey did not go unnoticed back home. “It was all congratulations from them,” said Ipan. “After we got back home, we wore the race singlet during our recovery run and it stood out! They told us, ‘Grabe, pumunta pa kayong Manila para diyan?’ Of course…it was our Dream Run.”

His message to fellow runners across the country? “Believe me…you’ll be surprised to see what you are capable of. It will be made more special when you run with your family and friends and finish together.”

First-Time Runners with Big Dreams

From Tondo, Manila, more than a dozen students from Young Focus Philippines also joined the EastWest Dream Run. Though their race was shorter at just 2 kilometers, their journey was equally meaningful.

“I felt super happy,” said Charm, one of the participants. “I just told myself, ‘Okay, it’s fine to get slow, as long as I won’t get lost.’ Someone shouted ‘1K more!’ and I had to stop, grab some water, and pray. But by God’s grace, I finished.”

It was also a moment of personal growth for Leslie: “This experience really pushed me out of my comfort zone. I found myself trying things I used to be afraid of, especially when it comes to socializing. It reminded me that growth often starts with discomfort.”

Young, rising runners from Young Focus Philippines beam with pride after finishing their first-ever fun run at the EastWest Dream Run Manila. Coming from the Smokey Mountain communities of Tondo, these young dreamers proved that no distance is too great when hope, courage, and opportunity lead the way. Following the run, a special program was held where EastWest presented a donation to Young Focus.

For many, the run was a symbol of resilience. “Even though it was exhausting, you could feel that everyone wanted to finish strong,” said Marc. “That energy was contagious.”

Several students shared their dreams for the future. Solomon, an IT student, wants to give back to his family and community, while Owen dreams of working for a well-known car company. Clarence, who’s still figuring out his path, simply wants to graduate and make his family proud. Each one expressed a shared hope: that no matter how hard life gets, they’ll keep running, one step at a time.

A Race That Goes Beyond the Finish Line

EastWest’s Dream Run promotes determination, and a sense of community. “We believe in creating moments that go beyond medals,” said EastWest Head of Marketing and Cash Management Martin Reyes. “This run brought people together from all walks of life, proving that no dream is too distant.”

For both groups, those who crossed islands and those who crossed comfort zones, it was a race that marked not just distance, but destiny.

Because sometimes, the bravest step you take isn’t the one on the podium, it’s the one that gets you to the starting line.

Small Body, Big Dream: Liit, a Special Dog on Wheels, Steals Hearts at EastWest Dream Run Manila

 At the final leg of the EastWest Dream Run 2025, more than 6,000 runners took to the streets of Filinvest City in Alabang to chase fitness goals and personal records. But one of the most unforgettable stories was about heart. And it came on four wheels.

Meet Liit, a French Bulldog with a huge spirit. Her name literally means “small,” but there’s nothing little about the courage she brought to the sold-out 1K Dog Category at the Dream Run’s Manila leg. Rolling beside her proud fur parent who is an EastWestbanker, Liit showed the world that dreams come in all sizes.

Liit is a PWD or Pet With Disability who lost the use of her hind legs and now moves with the help of a custom wheelchair. But what she may lack in mobility, she makes up for in joy, energy, and inspiration. With her wheels spinning and tail wagging, Liit surely lit up the route.

Liit made her way to everyone’s hearts at the EastWest Dream Run.

“Liit may be small, but her dreams are anything but,” said her owner, who has four other Frenchies. “Liit holds a special place in my heart. Just because she’s a PWD dog doesn’t mean she can’t enjoy the things other dogs do, like running freely and being part of something fun. Joining the EastWest Dream Run is our way of celebrating her fighting spirit and reminding everyone that you’re never too small or too different to chase after what you want.”

Cheered on by fellow runners and spectators alike, Liit became an instant crowd favorite, embodying the spirit of the EastWest Dream Run in its purest form. Her presence on the track reminded everyone that this event goes beyond medals and milestones. It’s about showing up, pushing forward, and doing it with love.

Held in celebration of EastWest’s 30th anniversary and the Filinvest Group’s 70th year, the Dream Run brought together people and pets from across the country to celebrate health, hope, and connection. With race categories for all ages and experience levels, including kids and dogs, the event became a vibrant display of inclusivity and shared spirit.

From the 30KM Dream Challenge to the 1K Dog Run, each category brought its own stories of strength. But few left as lasting a mark as Liit’s. Liit may not have reached the finish line, but on her tiny wheels, she reminded everyone that courage isn’t about crossing first—or at all. It’s about showing up, moving forward, and daring to try. That day, she rolled with something greater than strength. She owned the moment.

EastWest Rural Bank Champions Health and Education through Brigada Eskwela 2025 Initiatives

 

Dr. Jinky B. Firman, Schools Division Superintendent of Panabo City, Region XI joins EastWest Rural Bank personnel during the rollout of the Annual Physical Test (APT) initiative.

EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB) continued its strong community involvement by supporting the Department of Education’s Brigada Eskwela 2025 through two focused efforts: the Annual Physical Test (APT) initiative and its flagship volunteer program, EWRB in Action. Both efforts were launched nationwide to support the physical, mental, and academic readiness of educators and learners alike under this year’s campaign theme, “Sama-sama para sa Bayang Bumabasa.”

Promoting Teacher Wellness Through APT

In a bid to care for the country’s educators, EWRB rolled out the APT program once again. It offered free medical checkups such as CBC, urinalysis, and chest X-rays to DepEd teachers and non-teaching staff. The program also included financial literacy and cybersecurity sessions to help participants protect both their health and finances.

“This initiative shows how we live out our core value, ‘I Respond,’” said Sheila Marasigan Bajado, President of EastWest Rural Bank. “We recognize that to uplift education, we must also take care of the people behind it.”

The program was officially rolled out during the Brigada Eskwela National and Regional Kick-Offs, with over 600 DepEd personnel served at the national level and an estimated 3,000 more nationwide throughout the week-long campaign.

DepEd teachers in Buug District, Zamboanga-Sibugay received free medical checkups and financial wellness guidance through EastWest Rural Bank’s APT initiative, held in line with Brigada Eskwela 2025.

EWRB in Action: Beautifying Schools Nationwide

Simultaneously, EastWest Rural Bank’s “EWRB in Action” initiative extended tangible classroom support by distributing beautification materials, school supplies, and mobilizing employee volunteers to aid in school preparation.

Aligned with the 2025 Brigada Eskwela theme, “Sama-sama para sa Bayang Bumabasa,” the program benefited 846 public schools across the country through donations of paint, restoration tools, and on-ground assistance. Wellness booths and giveaways further strengthened EWRB’s engagement with local communities.

“Their presence in the field brings meaningful impact to the schools and learners they serve,” said Davedinah “Dove” Cometa, Project Development Officer III at the DepEd Central Office – External Partnerships Service.

EastWest Rural Bank brings its Annual Physical Test (APT) initiative to Cotabato City, offering free health screenings to DepEd teachers and staff as part of Brigada Eskwela 2025. The program promotes wellness and preparedness for the upcoming school year.

Shared Impact, Shared Purpose

EastWest Rural Bank’s Brigada Eskwela efforts reached all regions. The programs offered health services and classroom support, with each one focused on meeting the specific needs of schools and teachers in practical ways.

Dr. Jinky B. Firman, Schools Division Superintendent in Panabo City, where both programs were conducted, commended the initiative: “We deeply appreciate EastWest Rural Bank’s support for our teachers, not only through health and financial wellness programs, but also by providing much-needed supplies for our schools. The help they extended was timely and truly meaningful.”

“It’s a privilege to support our public school teachers and students as they prepare for a new school year,” added Hera Duka, EWRB’s Sustainability Champion. “We focus on providing real, practical help through health services, classroom support, or other specific needs identified by each school.”

About East West Banking Corporation:

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) is a Filipino-owned universal bank committed to empowering its clients through world-class financial solutions. EastWest is a subsidiary of Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC), one of the country’s leading conglomerates with a diverse range of interests including real estate, banking, hospitality & tourism, infrastructure power generation, and sugar. It is not affiliated with any foreign financial institution which may bear the same name. For more information, visit www.eastwestbanker.com.

EastWest Priority Wins Outstanding Client Experience Award at the Global Private Banking Innovation Awards 2025

EastWest Priority, the affluent banking arm of EastWest, has been awarded Outstanding Client Experience in Wealth Management at the Global Private Banking Innovation Awards 2025. This honor affirms EastWest Priority’s focus on thoughtful, tailored service and wealth strategies that speak to the needs of affluent clients across the country.

Raffy S. Algarra Jr., EastWest Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management, receives the Best Discretionary and Advisory Services Offering award at the 2025 Global Private Banking Innovation Awards.

Launched in 2016 following EastWest’s acquisition of Standard Chartered’s retail banking and wealth portfolio, EastWest Priority has evolved into a trusted financial partner by helping clients grow, preserve, and maximize their wealth through a suite of tailored products and relationship-led service.

Where Personalized Care Meets Technology
In 2024, EastWest Priority demonstrated its leadership in client-centricity by expanding its footprint to 12 Priority Centers nationwide, bringing premium banking closer to clients in key cities across the Visayas and Mindanao. This hyperlocal strategy, a rare advantage among its peers, enabled the Bank to meet clients where they live, work, and invest.

Complementing its physical network, EastWest Priority offers a full spectrum of wealth solutions across deposits, investments, insurance, and lending, each matched to a client’s goals, risk appetite, and life stage. Supported by expert Relationship Managers, the segment’s bespoke experience includes:

• Exclusive asset swap and gold investment opportunities via EastWest Financial Markets and Wealth Management and through its referral program with J. Rotbart & Co.

• Preferred foreign exchange rates and banking fees

• Visa Infinite debit and credit cards with concierge access, waived ATM charges, and global travel protection

• Strategic global partnerships like Henley & Partners for citizenship and residency services

• Experience-driven client events

On the digital front, Priority-exclusive features on the EasyWay app include a dedicated interface and online foreign exchange capabilities by bringing added convenience to globally mobile clients.

“At EastWest, we believe banking should be both personal and powerful,” said Raffy S. Algarra Jr., EastWest Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management. “EastWest Priority is about anticipating our clients’ aspirations and crafting solutions that go beyond transactions. This award is a testament to our people’s dedication and our long-term belief in customer intimacy, local relevance, and innovation.”

Richie Tamayo, Head of EastWest Wealth Management, added: “We understand that trust, expertise, and access are the currencies of wealth relationships. Our Priority team doesn’t just manage portfolios. They nurture ambition, with service that adapts to each client’s life stage, market conditions, and dreams.” All these can be enjoyed with a minimum total relationship balance of only P2.5Mn.

This distinctive value proposition, premium banking with inclusive thresholds, has helped position EastWest Priority as a rising leader in the Philippine affluent segment.

What’s Next
In 2025 and beyond, EastWest Priority is set to:

• Launch enhanced Priority Credit and Debit Cards with curated lifestyle offers

• Expand its footprint to new growth markets

• Broaden digital access to investment products

“Client experience is our compass,” Algarra concluded. “Winning this global recognition inspires us to elevate every solution and every interaction in our customers’ financial journey.”

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