BPI celebrates Lunar New Year with Chinese-Filipino clients in Visayas
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The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its Institutional Banking Group, hosted its annual Chinese New Year celebration on Feb. 3 at Bai Hotel Cebu to honor its Chinese-Filipino clients in Visayas.
This year’s event, themed “Year of the Wood Snake,” highlighted new beginnings, progress, and BPI’s “Strive in ‘25” vision, which focuses on innovation, collaboration, and client empowerment.
A year of transformation
Guests were welcomed with 3D zodiac-inspired panels and interactive booth activities, including games like “Snakes of Fortune,” “Golden Scratch Card,” “Labyrinth of Prosperity,” and the traditional “Dice Game,” creating a festive atmosphere.
The evening kicked off with a spectacular Lion Dance, setting the tone for a vibrant celebration. This was followed by remarks from John-C Syquia, head of Institutional Banking, who underscored the bank’s commitment to empowering clients through innovative financial solutions and strategic partnerships.
“We believe that BPI has always been at the forefront of innovation, firmly positioning ourselves as a trusted financial partner and industry pillar in the Philippines,” he said. “At BPI Institutional Banking and Global Markets, we take immense pride in delivering products and services that empower our clients to do more.”
He even likened the Wood Snake to the journey ahead, noting its symbolic ties to transformation, adaptability, and innovation. “The influence of Wood adds a sense of growth and innovation, helping the Snake become more resourceful and forward-thinking. As a banking institution and your partner, we look to enhance our partnerships and reinvent ways of doing business; to ride the tide of change or grab opportunities we face and strive for greater success in 2025,” he said.
Better financial management with BPI
The program featured BPI Lead Economist Jun Neri, who shared key insights on 2025’s financial outlook to help clients plan ahead. Adding a touch of tradition, feng shui master Melvin Sua provided his forecast and offered personalized consultations.
A celebratory toast led by Dino Gasmen, BPI treasurer and Global Markets head, underscored the bank’s commitment to innovation and strong partnerships while expressing gratitude and optimism for the year ahead.
“Your trust and confidence in BPI inspire us to continuously evolve and provide financial solutions that go beyond the basics—to anticipate and exceed your needs. Just like the Wood Snake, we’re embracing adaptability, resilience, and collaboration as the driving force behind our success in this fast-moving world,” said Gasmen.
A celebration of hope, fortune, and wealth
Guests then enjoyed a sumptuous dinner while watching performances by Chinese instrumentalists and traditional pole performers. The excitement built up during the raffle, which included prizes such as Apple products, wellness experiences at Fili Hotel, and a luxurious 3-day, 2-night stay at El Nido Resorts.
Noel Marcos, BPI Commercial Banking Division head for VisMin, closed the evening with insights on opportunities for 2025. “As we move forward, let’s embrace the spirit of the Wood Snake—breaking barriers, seizing opportunities, and achieving greater milestones together. Your dedication drives us to be better, to do more, and to serve with passion, and for that, we are truly grateful.”
This vibrant celebration reaffirmed BPI Institutional Banking’s commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships and supporting Chinese-Filipino clients in navigating the evolving business landscape.
The event seamlessly blended tradition, expertise, and innovation, setting an auspicious tone for the Year of the Wood Snake and reinforcing BPI’s position as the bank of choice for Visayas’ business community.
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Editor’s Note: This article was provided by BPI.
