The NextGen Advantage: UnionBank Institutional Banking Empowering Enterprises in the Philippines

 As the business landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, organizations are no longer expected to simply keep up — they are called to lead. The future belongs to those who take control of change rather than simply respond to it. UnionBank recently reinforced its role as a trusted partner to industry leaders with a landmark event highlighting its Institutional Banking proposition at Shangri-La The Fort in Taguig City. Over 400 attendees, including executives from top corporations and future-focused enterprises, gathered for an evening of thought leadership, collaboration, and forward-looking aspirations.

Anchored on the theme “The NextGen Advantage,” the gathering spotlighted how institutions can navigate shifting economic landscapes, rising stakeholder demands, and the accelerating impact of AI and digitalization. The event underscored UnionBank’s strengthened focus on institutional clients, forging a new kind of partnership grounded in shared vision, agility, and the co-creation of transformative solutions.

“What organizations need now is a partner who understands their ambitions and is equipped to help them grow with purpose and confidence. UnionBank is ready to meet that need. With the combined strength of our scale, expertise, and digital-first approach, we aim to empower your institutions not just to keep up — but to lead. From harnessing data-driven insights to enhancing client experiences across every touchpoint, we are committed to helping you thrive in a rapidly changing world,” said UnionBank President and CEO Ana Aboitiz Delgado.

The event’s panel discussion brought together industry experts, technology partners, and  UnionBank client leaders, who shared their success stories on how digital innovation transformed their operations and unlocked new opportunities for growth and profitability. Insights from FoodPanda Philippines CFO Mr. "Lhecks" de Castro Jr., Supreme Court Spokesperson Atty. Camille Ting, Supreme Court MIS Attorney Atty. CJ Romano, and Microsoft CTO Mr. Lope Doromal Jr. (c/o ATRAM) showcased real-world examples of innovation in action. Joined by UnionBank Treasury Consultant Mr. Jun Trinidad and Deputy Transaction Banking Head Ms. Erika Dizon-Go, the discussion highlighted how organizations can make themselves future-ready and create value across all levels through strategic use of technology.

“Our clients need a strategic partner who not only understands their industry but anticipates change and actively helps shape the future,” said Mimi Concha, Head of UnionBank Institutional Banking. “That’s exactly what we’re here to do.”

Concha emphasized that while technology plays a crucial role, the foundation remains deeply human. “At UnionBank, putting the customer at the heart of everything we do has always been our guiding principle — and Institutional Banking is no exception,” she added. “We’re here to listen, collaborate, and deliver future-ready, context-aware solutions that empower our partners to thrive in an increasingly dynamic environment.”

With deep expertise across key industries, UnionBank brings together its best-in-class relationship management, digital platforms, and an innovation-driven mindset to serve the unique needs of large and complex organizations. Through the years, UnionBank’s laser-sharp focus on exceptional service has been recognized with several awards, including Outstanding Digital CX – Payments and Collection Services (UPay), Best Customer Experience via Mobile and Internet Banking (The Portal), Digital Transformation of the Year – Philippines (ePaycard Digital Account Opening), and a Branch Innovation of the Year for The Portal’s enhanced branch experience.

Amid accelerating change and rising expectations, UnionBank stands at the forefront—not just as a financial institution, but as a force for progress and a driving partner in sustainable growth. “The future belongs to those who are ready to adapt, innovate, and lead with intention,” Delgado concluded. “We don’t just reimagine banking – we co-create what’s next with you.”

To learn more about UnionBank Institutional Banking and its co-creative approach to enterprise success, visit www.unionbankph.com or speak with your UnionBank Relationship Manager. You can also follow for updates on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or YouTube. 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.

UnionBank Private Banking Clinches Top Honors in Wealth and Legacy Planning from Global Private Banker

 UnionBank Private Banking has once again been recognized on the global stage, this time receiving top honors at the Global Private Banker Innovation Awards 2025. UnionBank Private Banking was awarded: 

• Best Private Bank for Succession Planning - Philippines 

• Excellence in Intergenerational Services - Private Bank 

• Highly Acclaimed for Best Private Bank for Client Experience.

Organized annually, the Global Private Banker Innovation Awards recognize the world’s leading private banks and wealth management institutions that demonstrate outstanding service, innovation, and leadership. With a rigorous judging process and global panel of industry experts, the awards are considered among the most prestigious in the private banking sector, spotlighting those who deliver exceptional value to clients across generations.

“More than just accolades, we believe this recognition reflects UnionBank Private Banking’s deep and ongoing commitment to help clients navigate the evolving complexities of wealth management, as we strive to offer not only expert investment guidance, but also thoughtful support on areas like portfolio governance and family legacy planning and intergenerational succession,” said Atty. Arlene Agustin, Head of UnionBank Private Banking.

 

At the heart of these recognitions is The NextGen Academy, a pioneering platform created by UnionBank Private Banking to empower future leaders of multigenerational family businesses. The program provides curated local and global learning opportunities that go beyond financial literacy, offering real-world engagement, mentorship, and exposure to best practices in wealth structuring and succession planning.

 

“These awards affirm what we hope our clients already experience: that UnionBank Private Banking is with them as they continue to build their legacy across generations,” Agustin added. “We’re honored to be recognized, but even more proud of the trust our clients place in us as stewards of their family’s future.”

 

In awarding the Best Private Bank for Succession Planning and Excellence in Intergenerational Services, Global Private Banker commended UnionBank’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, particularly through initiatives that engage multiple generations of the esteemed Aboitiz and Lombard families—reflecting the Bank’s deep expertise in managing family wealth across eras.

Meanwhile, the Highly Acclaimed award for Client Experience highlights the bank’s ongoing investment in delivering personalized, seamless journeys for every customer. Highly trained professional relationship managers, combined with enhanced digital capabilities, make a hyper touch client approach possible and enables highly tailored advisory engagements. UnionBank Private Banking continues to raise the bar in how wealth is managed with both sophistication and care.

 

For UnionBank Private Banking clients, these awards serve as a reflection of the bank’s unwavering dedication to their unique needs—not just today, but moving forward and across generations.

 

Your Dreams Can’t Wait: UnionBank Launches Fastest Personal Loan Yet

Designed to meet the needs of today’s fast-paced lifestyles, UnionBank’s fully digital loan process gives customers access to fast, flexible financing for major milestones — from upgrading their dream home, pursuing higher education, making home improvements, to supporting a growing family — anytime and anywhere.

The Fastest Way to Fund Your Dreams

UnionBank Personal Loan is designed for modern customers who value speed, simplicity, and security. With its fully digital processing system, eligible borrowers can enjoy immediate cash disbursement after approval — no long waits, no unnecessary paperwork.

Borrowers can access up to ₱2 million with no collateral or guarantor required, empowering them to pursue their goals with ease.

"At UnionBank, we’re redefining what customers should expect from their financial partners," said UnionBank Cards and Consumer Loans Head, Mukul Sukhani.  "With our all-new Personal Loan, we’re offering not just speed, but a seamless, empowering experience to help customers achieve their dreams faster."

Flexibility Tailored to Your Life

Recognizing that every customer journey is unique, UnionBank Personal Loan offers flexible repayment terms of up to five years, allowing borrowers to choose a payment plan that fits their budget and lifestyle.

Whether you're investing in your future or managing life’s major events, UnionBank ensures your financing experience is easy, empowering, and stress-free.

100% Online Application

From loan application to approval, UnionBank Personal Loan is fully accessible online. Customers can submit documents, track their application status, and receive approval — all through UnionBank’s secure digital platform. This seamless process eliminates the need for branch visits and cuts down wait times significantly

Fund Your Dreams — FAST

Experience the future of personal financing today. Apply for UnionBank’s all-new Personal Loan through https://www.unionbankph.com/r/plweb and make your biggest dreams a reality, faster than ever.

For more information, visit www.unionbankph.com or follow UnionBank on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube for the latest updates. 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.

Deanno J. Basas Appointed President of UBIMTC Following ATRAM and UnionBank Strategic Partnership

Following the formalization of the strategic partnership between ATRAM Group (ATRAM) and  Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) last May 8, 2025, Deanno J. Basas was appointed as  President of UnionBank Investment Management and Trust Corporation (UBIMTC) by the UBIMTC  Board of Directors. He will concurrently remain as the Chief Experience Officer of ATRAM Trust  Corporation (ATC), the trust and fiduciary services entity of the ATRAM. 

Prior to this appointment, Basas held the position of President at ATC until 2022 and subsequently  led ATRAM Digital as CEO, where he spearheaded the company's digital transformation. He brings  over 30 years of local and international experience in treasury trading and asset management to  his new role. 

The appointment follows the approval of the following transactions by the Monetary Board of  the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in April 2025: 

• UnionBank will acquire a 27.5% equity stake in ATR Asset Management, Inc. (AAMI),  ATRAM's mutual fund management arm. 

• AAMI will acquire 100% ownership of UBIMTC, UnionBank’s wholly owned subsidiary for  investment management and trust services. 

These transactions pave the way for the proposed merger of UBIMTC and ATC, subject to further  regulatory approvals, with ATC as the surviving entity. The timeline for the merger is yet to be  finalized. 

This strategic partnership leverages UnionBank’s advanced digital capabilities and ATRAM’s deep  wealth management expertise. The collaboration aims to enhance financial solutions, broaden  access to investment opportunities, and foster greater financial inclusion across the Philippines. 

Updates regarding significant developments will be released as they become available. For official  updates, please visit www.atram.com.ph and www.unionbankph.com.

 

UnionBank Elite unveils ‘Next in Wealth’ for the Year of the Snake in exclusive market outlook events

 UnionBank Elite, one of UnionBank’s premier wealth management programs, continues to take wealth to the next level with its recently concluded series of market outlook events for 2025.

A Night of Insights, Expertise, and Celebration

Designed to provide clients with valuable investment insights, UnionBank Elite’s exclusive Chinese New Year-themed Market Outlook events, “Next in Wealth: Seizing Success in the Year of the Snake,” brought together its most valued clients for an evening of expert knowledge and celebration. Held across three prestigious venues—Solaire Resort North, Grand Hyatt Manila, and Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu— the event set the stage for strategic wealth planning in 2025.

 UnionBank’s unwavering commitment to delivering elite banking experiences that go beyond traditional wealth management was underscored by the presence of UnionBank’s top leadership, led by President and CEO Ana Aboitiz-Delgado, Consumer Bank Head Manoj Varma, and Wealth and Brokerage Head and UFSI Board Director Therese Chan.

 Expert Insights for Smart Investing

To help clients understand and navigate the complexities of the global market in 2025, UnionBank had their leading global fund house partners present the latest market updates and investment strategies.

 Allianz Global’s Karen Chen, Sr. Product Specialist, and Jason Lim, Sr. Channel Sales Manager, discussed the impact of shifting geopolitical dynamics in the U.S. and the risks and opportunities they present. PQ Lim, CEO of HSBC Asset Management Singapore, shared insights on how clients can capitalize on India’s rapidly growing economy. Phil Hagedorn, President and Chief Investor Engagement Officer for ATRAM, highlighted strategies for diversifying within the Philippine Equity market.

 

Beyond investment growth, the event also emphasized wealth protection, with presentations from Jose Eduardo Ang, InLife Chief Product and Innovation Officer, and Jose Paulo Lorenzo T. Puno, InLife Product Development Officer. Additionally, representatives from Oona and Aboitiz InfraCapital introduced other financial solutions designed to strengthen clients’ wealth portfolios.

By integrating global expertise into UnionBank Elite’s wealth management services, and with the guidance of its team of wealth experts, UnionBank continues to provide clients with personalized solutions that empower them to make informed financial decisions confidently, this 2025 and beyond.

 

“At UnionBank, we are committed to staying a step ahead as we take wealth management and banking to the next level. We are happy and grateful for your continued trust in us, as your partner in growing your wealth. You can be sure that your Relationship Managers, and the entire UnionBank team, are here to help and guide you every step of the way.” said Ana Aboitiz- Delgado.

 

VIP Experiences Beyond Banking

True to its commitment to offering world-class experiences, UnionBank Elite elevated the evening with special performances by some of the country’s top artists. Adding a unique perspective to the festivities was renowned Feng Shui Master Marites Allen, who provided a prosperity forecast for the Year of the Snake and gave clients an insightful look into favorable financial opportunities this year.

 

UnionBank remains at the forefront of delivering levelled-up banking experiences that support clients in achieving their financial aspirations. The Chinese New Year Market Outlook series is just one of the many exclusive offerings under UnionBank Elite, designed to help clients build, grow, and protect their wealth.

 

To learn more about UnionBank Elite, visit www.unionbankph.com/wealth/elite or email ubwealth@unionbankph.com.

UnionBank and GMG Productions Kick Off Exciting 2025 Season Partnership

 

Following the successes of Hamilton, Miss Saigon, and SIX The Musical, UnionBank and GMG Productions (GMGP) are taking their partnership to the next level, as they bring a fresh roster of world-class experiences to cardholders.

As GMGP’s official 2025 season partner, UnionBank continues to elevate the local entertainment space with exclusive perks for UnionBank Credit and Debit Cardholders, including early access to tickets, special discounts, and VIP experiences.

This partnership with GMGP further solidifies the bank’s strategic position in the area of entertainment. Since April 2023, UnionBank has sponsored 15 exclusive shows at major theatres, stadiums, and arenas in the Philippines.

Carlos Candal, GMG Productions CEO and Mukul Sukhani,
UnionBank Cards and Consumer Loans Head

"We’re thrilled to continue giving our cardholders exclusive access to world-class productions, made possible through our long-term partnership with GMG Productions. Following our support for iconic shows like Hamilton and Miss Saigon, we remain committed to celebrating Filipinos' love for musicals by offering premium benefits and unforgettable experiences that our clients can enjoy only with their UnionBank card," says Mukul Sukhani, Head of Cards & Consumer Loans at UnionBank.

UnionBank and GMG Teams: (L-R, Front Row) GMG CEO Carlos Candal and UnionBank Cards and Consumer Loans Head Mukul Sukhani with (L-R, Back Row) Michelle Endaya, Allie Mañalac, Ciary Manhit, Samantha Sewell, Mellany Sy, Eina Garrido Wong, and Jillian Gatcheco-Cantada

GMGP, based in Manila, is a leading name in the theater scene, bringing internationally renowned musicals and shows to Asia Pacific. With a legacy spanning over 15 years, the GMGP team has consistently elevated Manila’s entertainment scene, presenting iconic productions such as CATS, MATILDA the Musical, and The Phantom of the Opera. In April 2023, UnionBank and GMGP began their partnership with the globally beloved HAMILTON, followed by Miss Saigon and SIX The Musical.

“We’re excited to continue our partnership with UnionBank for the 2025 season, reinforcing our shared commitment to expanding access to world-class theatre in the Philippines. This collaboration continues to create unique opportunities for audiences while strengthening the local entertainment landscape,” shares Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions. “With UnionBank’s support, we look forward to delivering another season of exceptional productions and exclusive experiences for their cardholders."

In the last few weeks, GMGP has been teasing its followers and local theater fans with its upcoming 2025 roster of shows. On January 17, GMG premiered a teaser video during the Wicked Singalong, much to the crowd’s delight—and fearless forecasts.

The first two in the year’s lineup were already announced in the past weeks, confirming everyone’s guesses from the teaser video: Tony Award-winning musicals Come From Away and Dear Evan Hansen.

Come From Away will take the stage this June at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre. UnionBank Credit and Debit Cardholders enjoyed exclusive early access to tickets plus a 15% discount during the pre-sale period from February 18 to 20, 2025.

Dear Even Hansen, on the other hand, will be held at The Theatre at Solaire, and UnionBank Cardholders will again be able to access tickets earlier with a 10% discount during the exclusive UnionBank pre-sale from April 8 to 11, 2025.

This much-anticipated hit musical is about Evan Hansen, a high-school senior struggling with social anxiety, and his journey of self-discovery and acceptance after a tragic event in school.

What do you think the next big show will be? Stay tuned for more by following UnionBank on Meta, Instagram, and TikTok! While you’re at it, make sure you have a UnionBank Credit Card to unlock unbelievable benefits and exclusive entertainment experiences. For a list of current promotions, visit the UnionBank website.