BPI strengthens ties with Chinese-Filipino clients in VisMin
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The Bank of the Philippine Islands, through its institutional banking arm, staged its annual Lunar New Year celebration for its Chinese-Filipino clients based in the Visayas and Mindanao last Feb. 19 at the bai Hotel Cebu.
Themed after the Year of the Fire Horse—a symbol of movement, passion, and innovation—the event highlighted themes of momentum, strength, and new beginnings.
Guests were welcomed with a feng shui panel featuring the zodiac animals and engaging activities such as the Tree of Luck, Leap of Fortune, Unity Build, and the traditional Dice Game, setting an energetic and auspicious mood for the evening.
In his keynote address, BPI president and CEO TG Limcaoco looked back at the Bank’s partnership with businesses over the years, especially in the Visayas and Mindanao.
“This year carries even deeper meaning for us at BPI. On August 1, we will celebrate 175 years of service. For nearly two centuries, BPI has stood alongside Filipino businesses and families—through growth cycles, transitions, and transformations. We have grown with the nation, supporting enterprises as they modernize, expand, and pass on value across generations,” he said.
Limcaoco also reaffirmed BPI’s steadfast commitment to supporting clients’ business growth.
“At BPI, our mission has always been to help your businesses thrive. Today, thriving requires navigating both complexity and opportunity in a fast-evolving digital environment. That is why we continue strengthening the way we serve you—ensuring that our capabilities evolve alongside your ambitions,” Limcaoco added.
The celebration opened with the classical “The Elephant King” dance, followed by remarks from BPI Institutional Banking Head Louie Cruz.
“We are here to honor the partnership we have built with the Chinese-Filipino business community—partnerships grounded in shared values: hard work, resilience, and the desire to create lasting progress,” he said.
Cruz added that the Fire Horse is a symbol of movement, passion, and innovation, which Chinese-Filipino businesses exemplify.
“[The Fire Horse] is a reminder that progress favors those who push forward with energy and vision. As I look around the room, I see many leaders and entrepreneurs who embody exactly that spirit: people whose determination has not only built businesses but strengthened communities and contributed to nation-building,” he noted.
To help clients plan ahead for the rest of 2026, BPI Lead Economist Jun Neri shared key insights on the Bank’s financial outlook for the year. Meanwhile, Feng Shui Master Norman Cruz gave his forecast and offered personalized consultations.
During the celebratory toast, BPI Institutional Banking Visayas Division Head Michelle Pandan highlighted the strength and continuity of BPI’s relationship with its clients.
“Tonight, we celebrate not only a new year, but the enduring partnerships that make our journey meaningful. With all of you by our side, we are forging ahead into the future stronger and ready for the road ahead,” she said.
A vibrant lion dance performance followed. Guests then enjoyed a sumptuous dinner accompanied by traditional Chinese cultural numbers. Excitement continued to build throughout the evening, with raffles that featured Apple products as prizes.
BPI Institutional Banking Commercial Group Head Noel Marcos closed the event by sharing perspectives on growth opportunities for 2026, saying, “Tonight, we are celebrating not just a new year, but the connections that keep us moving forward together. You inspire us to raise the bar in everything we do. May the Horse bring you good fortune!”
The evening’s celebration underscored BPI’s dedication to building meaningful partnerships and supporting Chinese-Filipino clients as they navigate an evolving business environment. Blending tradition, insight, and innovation, the event set a strong and auspicious start to the Year of the Fire Horse—reinforcing BPI’s position as the bank of choice for enterprises in the Visayas and Mindanao.
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Editor’s Note: This article was provided by BPI.
