UnionBank Private wins triple global awards for next-generation wealth management excellence

 

Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) has earned multiple international recognitions at the prestigious Global Private Banker Innovation Awards 2026, underscoring its commitment to helping clients build and preserve their financial legacy through tailored wealth management solutions and NextGen empowerment. Through UnionBank Private—its highest-tier wealth management segment serving ultra-high-net-worth individuals—the Bank was recognized for delivering holistic and forward-looking financial solutions, securing three major accolades:

    • Best Next-Generation Offering - Philippines

    • Best Private Bank for Client Experience – Philippines

    • Excellence in Intergenerational Services by a Private Bank

The annual Global Private Banker Innovation Awards honor the world’s leading private banks and wealth managers for upholding the highest standards of excellence in customer-centric service, pioneering innovation, and strategic leadership.

Judged by a panel of global industry specialists, the Global Private Banker Innovation Awards is regarded as a benchmark of excellence across the financial sector. The 2026 cycle is regarded as the most competitive to date, with increased participation from the world’s best banks, wealth managers, and family offices.

“We are honored to be recognized for our commitment to helping our clients preserve their wealth for succeeding generations. One of the challenges of managing and preserving multi-generational wealth is the difference in perspectives and priorities,” said UnionBank Head of Wealth Management, Gauraw Srivastava.

“UnionBank Private recognizes the vital role the next generation plays in securing their family’s future. We offer tailored solutions that focus on leadership, portfolio construction, business transformation, succession, and more, to support their legacy goals,” added Srivastava. 

UnionBank Private’s NextGen Academy, a specially tailored program to cultivate the NextGen's leaders, was heralded as Best Next-Generation Offering. The initiative helps young family members develop a strong financial foundation early in their careers, preparing them to sustain and grow their family’s legacy.

In presenting the Best Private Bank for Client Experience, the Global Private Banker Innovation Awards commended UnionBank Private’s ability to deliver bespoke solutions to its high-net-worth clients, enabling them to make complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence.

The Excellence in Intergenerational Services by a Private Bank award extolled UnionBank Private’s LeGen (Leading Generation) program for bridging intergenerational gaps between the leading generation and the NextGen through conversations of family succession, wealth transfer, and legacy planning. LeGen is part of the bank’s NextGen Academy and includes mentorship and peer sessions focused on wealth preservation and business resilience.

UnionBank Private’s global recognition comes amid evolving client demands in the financial segment. Clients are seeking more personalized experiences to help them navigate the nuances of wealth management and long-term value creation. As it moves forward, UnionBank will continue to pioneer holistic solutions that support clients through every stage of wealth creation, management, and succession.

For more information on UnionBank’s wealth management offerings, visit www.unionbankph.com or follow on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or YouTube. Union Bank of the Philippines is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (https://www.bsp.gov.ph). For more info, please visit our website. For any concern, you may contact us through our Customer Service Hotline at (+632) 8841-8600.

Personal Equity and Retirement Account (PERA) via UnionBank Online App Launch

UnionBank of the Philippines, in collaboration with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and ATRAM Trust Corporation (ATC), has recently launched a new feature on UnionBank Online app that allows customers to conveniently open a Personal Equity and Retirement Account or PERA - a voluntary savings and investment program designed for long-term goals and retirement.

Preparing for the Future with PERA

In line with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) advocacy to promote long‑term financial well‑being among Filipino families, PERA helps individuals prepare for a more comfortable retirement. Through PERA, customers can invest funds in BSP‑approved products that have the potential to grow over time.

With the evolving economic landscape, government‑mandated pension programs such as GSIS and SSS, as well as employer‑provided retirement plans, may not always be sufficient to meet future needs. PERA offers an additional layer of financial support, empowering customers to take a more proactive approach to financial planning — whether for retirement, long‑term goals, or added financial security.

Making PERA More Accessible to Filipinos via UnionBank Online

Supporting BSP’s push for greater financial inclusion, UnionBank created a fully digital PERA experience that allows customers to open an account without filling out lengthy forms or uploading multiple documents. Once onboarded, customers can begin growing their long‑term and retirement savings through BSP‑accredited investment products.

For the initial phase, UnionBank co-created the digital experience with its trust partner, ATC, which plays an administrative role providing customers with a wider range of investment products to choose from.

“We believe that preparing for the future should be simple, inclusive, and accessible to every Filipino,” said Ana Aboitiz Delgado, Union Bank of the Philippines President and CEO. “By fully digitizing PERA onboarding within UnionBank Online, we are removing traditional barriers to long‑term investing and enabling our customers to start building financial security earlier, conveniently and confidently.”

With a secure platform, PERA via UnionBank Online aims to encourage more Filipinos to grow their savings as early as possible so they can be financially secure for the future.

Growth Unlocked: UnionBank Powers Up Filipino Entrepreneurs at Brand Con 2025

 UnionBank continues to empower Filipino Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) by partnering with BRAND CON, the Philippines’ first annual convention dedicated to branding excellence for SMEs. This collaboration highlights the Bank’s role as a catalyst for change—driving innovation and unlocking the power to grow for entrepreneurs across the country.

Happening from November 11 to 13, 2025 at Newport Resorts World, BRAND CON will bring together business leaders, brand strategists, and SME owners to explore how strong branding and innovation can drive competitiveness and sustainability in today’s market. 

“Through UB Negosyante, we empower entrepreneurs with the tools, financial solutions, and programs they need to succeed,” said Albert C. Cuadrante, UnionBank’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Our partnership with BRAND CON reflects our shared mission of equipping SMEs with the resources and knowledge that power up their brands to thrive in a dynamic economy.”  The initiative aligns with UnionBank’s broader vision of helping Filipinos live a life unlocked—where opportunities are accessible, growth is attainable, and success is within reach.

Attendees will be delighted to discover the UB Negosyante Christmas Village—UnionBank’s dedicated space at BRAND CON showcasing local merchants equipped with QRPH-powered payment solutions for fast, secure, and seamless transactions. Designed to help SMEs leverage on the peak retail season, the Christmas Village offers a vibrant marketplace where holiday shoppers can support small businesses and experience NextGen banking in action where they can simply scan to pay and enjoy a smarter, more convenient way to shop this Christmas.

“This marks the first time UnionBank is launching the UB Negosyante Christmas Village, and we’re truly honored they’ve chosen BRAND CON as the venue,” Bingo Soriano, Founder and Chairman of BRAND CON shared. “What makes this even more exciting is that almost the entire village will exclusively feature Filipino small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It’s a fresh, innovative experience, and more importantly, it aligns perfectly with our shared mission of empowering local entrepreneurs and championing homegrown brands,” he added.

 

UnionBank will also highlight its suite of SME-focused products that power up businesses at every stage of growth. The UnionBank BizStarter Account lowers barriers to entry with an initial deposit of just Php 5,000, making banking accessible to small business owners. The UB Negosyante App serves as an all-in-one financial management platform, allowing entrepreneurs to manage, disburse, and collect funds while generating QRPH codes for easy payment collection. For SMEs looking to expand, UnionBank’s Business Line provides up to Php 10 million in revolving credit to finance growth and operations.

 

Beyond financial tools, BRAND CON offers a wealth of learning opportunities, including talks from inspiring business leaders such as Mary Grace Dimacali of Mary Grace Cafe, Paco Magsaysay of Carmen’s Best, and international branding expert Laura Ries, author of Visual Hammer and The Strategic Enemy. Participants can also join mentoring workshops, networking sessions, and explore a brand museum that highlights the evolution of iconic Philippine brands.

 

“Our goal is to build an ecosystem where SMEs go beyond banking—equipping them with the knowledge, networks, and inspiration they need to grow,” Cuadrante added. “Through partnerships like BRAND CON, UnionBank continues to power up Filipino entrepreneurs as they take their businesses to the next level.”

 

With UnionBank’s innovative financial tools and BRAND CON’s commitment to building stronger brands, BRAND CON 2025 is set to be a landmark event for SMEs, blending insights, innovation, and empowerment.

For more information on UnionBank’s efforts and offerings for SMEs, visit the UnionBank website at www.unionbankph.com, or follow on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or Youtube. Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1,000,000 per depositor. For any concerns, you can contact us through our Customer Service Hotline at (+632) 8841-8600. Union Bank of the Philippines is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas with website: https://www.bsp.gov.ph.

For more information about BRAND CON 2025, please visit https://brand-con.com/ 

UnionBank and INSEAD Launch ASCEND Program to Shape Next Generation Wealth Advisory

 UnionBank—recognized as the Best Wealth Management Bank in the Philippines by The Asian Banker—has recently partnered with INSEAD, a global leader in business education, to launch the ASCEND Program. This strategic learning initiative is designed to enhance the capabilities of the bank’s Relationship Managers (RMs) across Wealth Management, Private Banking, and Retail Banking.

The partnership was formalized through a ceremonial signing led by Ana Aboitiz Delgado, President and CEO of UnionBank, and Prof. Sameer Hasija, Dean of INSEAD Asia Campus and Executive Education. The event marks the beginning of a multi-year collaboration that reflects UnionBank’s bold, forward-looking approach to developing world-class banking talent.

Joining Prof. Hasija from INSEAD were Mr. Karthik Rajaraman, Senior Director, Corporate Partnerships, and Mr. VJ Posadas, Director, Corporate Partnerships. Representing UnionBank’s senior leadership team were Ms. Michelle Rubio, Chief Human Resource Officer; Mr. Manoj Varma, Consumer Banking Center Head; Mr. Gauraw Srivastava, Wealth Management Head; and Mr. Gautam Sharma, Wealth Sales Network Head.

 The ASCEND Program is a transformative learning initiative that aims to equip UnionBank’s top-performing Relationship Managers with global insights and advanced skills in macroeconomics, market dynamics, behavioral economics, and emerging trends in wealth management.

“Today marks the beginning of a meaningful partnership—one that reflects our deep commitment to investing in our people and shaping the future of banking,” said Ana Aboitiz Delgado, UnionBank President and CEO. “At UnionBank, we believe that excellence in client service begins with excellence in talent. That’s why we are focused on building the best-skilled Relationship Managers in the Philippines—professionals who are not only technically capable, but also deeply attuned to the needs, ambitions, and goals of our clients.”

“When an organization shares the DNA of learning and calls its learning service provider a partner, you know that this mindset runs deep,” shared Prof. Sameer Hasija, Dean of INSEAD Asia Campus and Executive Education. “It’s exciting to see the real potential for impact that a collaboration like this can bring.”

Under the program’s first phase, selected Relationship Managers underwent a two-day intensive training conducted by INSEAD faculty. Future phases will expand the program’s reach and integrate digital learning modules covering topics such as digital currencies, tokenization, and artificial intelligence, ensuring UnionBank’s advisors remain at the forefront of global financial innovation.

UnionBank’s partnership with INSEAD marks a major step toward redefining wealth advisory in the Philippines. At the heart of this initiative is a bold vision: to transform client relationships by positioning advisors not just as bankers, but as trusted, forward-thinking professionals who continuously learn, adapt, and evolve to serve their clients with deeper insight and expertise.

 UnionBank places a strong emphasis on continuous learning and expert-led advisory by spotlighting its Relationship Managers (RMs) as key drivers of its high tech–high touch approach. The Beyond the Graph video series highlights how RMs blend data-driven insights with advanced technology to deliver personalized strategies—while maintaining the human connection that clients value. The ASCEND Program builds on this approach, equipping advisors to go beyond the numbers and provide meaningful, tailored guidance rooted in both expertise and empathy.

 This strategic collaboration underscores UnionBank’s global outlook and its unwavering commitment to being the advisor of choice. By investing in the continuous growth and development of its people, UnionBank reinforces its reputation as a trusted steward of client wealth—equipped to navigate today’s complex financial landscape with both confidence and care.

Unlock the Future of Fast and Secure Payments with UnionBank Online’s MOBILE TAP TO PAY

UnionBank proudly introduces the Mobile Tap to Pay feature on its multi-awarded UnionBank Online app—marking a new milestone in digital banking innovation. Designed for speed, simplicity, and security, this latest offering enables users to make everyday payments with just a tap, going truly wallet-free. 

Upon activation on the UnionBank Online App, the new feature enables customers to make secure, contactless payments using any NFC-enabled Android device linked to their UnionBank Visa Debit or Credit Card. By simply tapping their phone at any Visa contactless terminal worldwide, users can complete transactions—no physical card needed, no extra steps required.

“With Mobile Tap to Pay, UnionBank is elevating the everyday payment experience for Filipinos. This isn’t just a new feature—it’s a customer-first innovation that brings security, speed, and simplicity of making payments directly via our mobile app. By making digital payments as effortless as a tap without the need to bring out the physical debit or credit card, we’re empowering our customers to move through their day with confidence and ease,” said UnionBank’s Chief Marketing & Experience Officer, Albert Cuadrante.

Once activated, UnionBank’s tap-to-pay feature can be launched directly from the app’s login screen, giving customers access within seconds through biometric authentication. With speed and convenience built into a single tap, the UnionBank Online app allows users to link or unlink their preferred debit or credit card—empowering them to tailor their payment options to their financial lifestyle. But it’s not just about ease of use; it’s about security, too. Each transaction is protected by Visa’s tokenization technology, which replaces sensitive card details with a unique, encrypted code. This ensures critical information remains secure and is never stored or shared with merchants. 

This launch marks another milestone in UnionBank’s role as a leader in digital innovation. As one of the first Philippine banks to offer native Mobile Tap to Pay functionality within its app, UnionBank continues to deliver solutions that are not only technically robust, but also intuitive and responsive to the way people live today.

“Whether it’s a quick coffee run, a spontaneous purchase, or a fast-paced commute, Mobile Tap to Pay is designed to keep up with our customers’ lives—making every transaction seamless and stress-free,” Cuadrante concluded.

 The new app feature works at millions of Visa contactless payment terminals worldwide, from neighborhood cafés to overseas boutiques, giving customers global convenience with the local reliability they’ve come to expect from UnionBank.

 

UnionBank’s Mobile Tap to Pay is more than a new way to pay; it’s a step toward more seamless, secure, and future-forward banking experiences.

 

To get started, update your UnionBank Online app, and setup Tap to Pay. Know more about UnionBank’s Mobile Tap to Pay feature by visiting the UnionBank website at www.unionbankph.com, or follow UnionBank’s official accounts on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or YouTube for updates. Union Bank of the Philippines is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to P1 Million per depositor. For more info, please visit our website. For any concern, you may contact us through our UnionBank Online app (Mailbox > Support > Create New Ticket) or our Customer Service Hotline at (+632) 8841-8600.

UnionBank Wealth Empowers Clients with Expert Insights from Top Fund Houses to Navigate 2025 and Beyond

UnionBank Elite, the premier wealth management program of UnionBank, in partnership with UnionBank Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Inc. (UFSI), recently hosted the 2025 Midyear Market Outlook event series – an exclusive gathering of clients, global investment experts, and strategic partners to exchange meaningful insights and forward-looking strategies. Held at Makati Shangri-La, Solaire North, and Radisson Blu Cebu, the event series – anchored on the theme “Navigating the Future: Your Wealth Compass” – equipped clients with insights to make informed decisions amid a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

UnionBank Wealth Management Midyear Outlook Event. From left to right: UnionBank Chief Marketing and Experience Officer Albert Cuadrante, UnionBank Institutional Banking Head Mimi C. Concha, UnionBank Consumer Banking Head Manoj Varma, UnionBank President and CEO Ana Aboitiz-Delgado, UnionBank Wealth Business Head Therese Chan, UnionBank Cards and Consumer Loans Head Mukul Sukhani, and UFSI President and CEO Ramon Melchor Tejero.

Manoj Varma, UnionBank Consumer Banking Head, opened the event by highlighting the premier products and programs designed for the bank’s high-net-worth clients. He underscored UnionBank's commitment to elevating wealth management in the country, stating, “When we combine the best people in wealth management with the best global platforms, we are able to create the most value for you, our clients. With this holistic strategy, the returns that you are seeing are consistently above most of the industry.”

In the Photo: UnionBank Consumer Banking Head Manoj Varma

The main program featured expert perspectives on market trends, portfolio resilience, systematic investments, and long-term opportunities from leading global investment firms BlackRock, PIMCO, and ATRAM. These sessions were designed to help clients align their financial strategies with their personal goals and values, empowering them to make informed decisions with clarity and confidence.

In the Photo (From left to right): Host Issa Litton, UFSI President and CEO Ramon Melchor Tejero joined the panel discussion together with BlackRock Systematic Active Equities Director and Senior Investment Strategist Anthony Kruger, CAIA, PIMCO Vice President and Account Manager for South Asia Clara Ng, and ATRAM Trust Corporation President and Chief Investor Engagement Officer Phillip Frederick Hagedorn

UnionBank also showcased its leadership in digital innovation by presenting the new and existing features of UnionBank Online. Mr. Varma gave an exclusive preview of a first-in-market service, while Chief Marketing and Experience Officer Albert Cuadrante highlighted existing UnionBank Online features that can help clients manage their wealth and finances easier and smarter. This emphasizes the bank’s proactive commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its clients and delivering seamless, future-ready solutions.

To further level up the occasion, Gian Magdangal, a world-class singer and theater actor, serenaded the audience with inspiring and powerful musical performances. Guests also enjoyed special treats and experiences made possible by partners such as Balesin, InLife, Salcedo Auctions, and Visa.

In the Photo: UnionBank Chief Marketing and Experience Officer Albert Cuadrante shared the latest UnionBank Online features with Host Issa Litton, and Singer-Theater Actor Gian Magdangal 

“Our goal is to equip clients with the clarity and confidence to move forward,” said Therese Chan, UnionBank Wealth Business Head. “Whether through our Relationship Managers, our digital platforms, or our partnerships with global experts, UnionBank is here to help clients navigate their wealth journey with purpose.”

In the Photo: UnionBank Wealth Business Head Therese Chan

UnionBank is dedicated to elevating client experiences through its regular Market Outlook events, which feature interactive segments and panel discussions that give clients the opportunity to share their perspectives, concerns, and aspirations directly with industry leaders. By fostering meaningful dialogue and deeper engagement, these events are designed to help clients strengthen and grow their portfolios. This client-centric approach led to our recognition by The Asian Banker as the Best Wealth Management Bank in the Philippines for 2025.

Clients are encouraged to continue the conversation with their Relationship Managers and explore new opportunities to strengthen and grow their portfolios. 

For more information, visit  www.unionbankph.com/wealth/elite or follow for updates on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or YouTube. Deposits are insured by the PDIC up to ₱1,000,000 per depositor. For any concerns, you can contact UnionBank through its Customer Service Hotline at (+632) 8841-8600. Union Bank of the Philippines is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas  https://www.bsp.gov.ph.

Banking Meets Benefits with the Union Bank MySSS Card

 The Social Security System (SSS) and Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) have announced the development of the MySSS Card, a groundbreaking 2-in-1 solution that combines an SSS issued functional ID with a UnionBank-powered Visa debit card. This new offering builds on the success of a previous card partnership that saw hundreds of thousands of cards issued since the initial rollout in October 2022.

“This partnership marks a major step forward in making government services more accessible and efficient for our members,” said Robert Joseph M. De Claro, President and CEO of SSS. “The MySSS Card empowers our members with a secure and convenient way to receive their benefits, while also serving as an official SSS-recognized ID.”

Once available, the MySSS Card provides members an even more secure and convenient way to receive their SSS benefits, loans, and refunds directly through a UnionBank savings account. Through a simple online application via the UnionBank Online app, an SSS member will be able to access a Visa debit card that supports worldwide transactions, digital payments, and mobile banking.

“Together with SSS, we are once again reimagining what banking can be like for millions of Filipinos.” said Ana Aboitiz Delgado, President and CEO of UnionBank, “This new product will allow SSS members with a Philsys ID to get a MYSSS card, broadening the eligible base to over 40 million Filipinos. We are proud to be partners in this initiative that enhances financial inclusion.“

The MySSS Card is designed for today’s digitally inclined Filipinos who value speed, security, and simplicity in their financial and government transactions. It reflects a shared commitment between SSS and UnionBank to make basic financial services more accessible, especially to the unbanked. 

Members are encouraged to stay tuned for the official release of the MySSS Card. It is worth looking out for as the MySSS Card represents a promise of faster, safer, and smarter access to SSS member benefits through innovative government-private collaboration.

For more information, visit www.unionbankph.com. You can also follow for updates on UnionBank’s official social channels namely Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or YouTube. Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1,000,000 per depositor. For any concerns, you can contact us through our Customer Service Hotline at (+632) 8841-8600. Union Bank of the Philippines is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas with website: https://www.bsp.gov.ph.

UnionBank Unveils a New Branch at the Aboitiz Corporate Center in Cebu

UnionBank recently inaugurated a new branch at the Aboitiz Corporate Center in Cebu City, enhancing access to financial services in one of the city’s key business districts. The recently-opened branch continues to showcase modern, customer-centric banking that promotes paperless transactions, intuitive self-service tablets, and 24/7 ATM machines —delivering a seamless experience for individuals and businesses alike. 

“This new branch is more than just a physical space. It is a reflection of our belief in Cebu’s continued growth and our dedication to being part of that journey. Whether you're a long-time client or someone who is just beginning your financial relationship with us, we are here to serve you with excellence, innovation, and care,” said UnionBank President and CEO Ana Aboitiz Delgado during the branch’s ribbon cutting ceremonies.

“Cebu has always been a city full of promise—rich in culture, commerce, and strong community spirit. It’s where my family put down roots more than a century ago, and where our businesses first began to grow,” Delgado shared. She compared UnionBank’s partnership with Cebu to an acacia tree the Aboitiz family once planted—one that grew steadily, weathered storms, and remained strong over time. “As we grow our presence here, we’re not just opening a new branch—we’re strengthening our bond with the people and businesses that keep Cebu thriving.”

Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, who attended the blessing of UnionBank’s 20th branch in the region, commended the Bank’s commitment to service and innovation. He noted the professionalism and personalized approach of its team, reflecting the kind of customer experience that supports growth and trust in the community.

Also present at the inauguration were Cebu City Second District Representative Eduardo “Edu" Rama Jr.; UnionBank Relationship Banking Head Conception Pearlie Lontoc; UnionBank Chief Cross-Sell and Chief External Relations Officer Anton Corro; and UnionBank Chief Marketing and Experience Officer Albert Cuadrante. 

“This recent branch opening is a clear sign of confidence in Cebu as one of the fastest growing regions in the country, and we are committed to be part of what supports and enables its exponential momentum." said UnionBank Cebu Sales Director for Relationship Banking Center Pico Sarmiento.

UnionBank’s latest branch opening underscores its drive to empower Filipinos through innovative banking even in its physical spaces and its ongoing support for thriving communities.

To learn more about UnionBank visit www.unionbankph.com. You can also follow for updates on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or YouTube. Deposits are insured by the PDIC up to ₱1,000,000 per depositor. For any concerns, you can contact us through our Customer Service Hotline at (+632) 8841-8600. Union Bank of the Philippines is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas  https://www.bsp.gov.ph.