Why Metro Manila’s Condo Oversupply Could be a Win for First Time Homebuyers

Metro Manila’s condominium market is experiencing a record-high oversupply, presenting a prime opportunity for first-time homebuyers. According to the 2024 Metro Manila Residential Report, around 26,300 ready-for-occupancy (RFO) units remained unsold at the end of last year. Additionally, the city’s rising vacancy rate, driven by aggressive property development, has contributed to the growing number of available units. 

In response, developers are offering competitive pricing, flexible payment terms, and additional incentives. With interest rate cuts expected to bring down mortgage rates, conditions are becoming increasingly favorable for buyers.

Protect Your Digital Activities Amid Surge in Online Scams

As online fraud reaches unprecedented levels, Filipinos are reminded to stay vigilant and strengthen their digital security—a key message underscored by Safer Internet Day, an annual global movement advocating for a safer and more responsible online experience.

According to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), cybercrime complaints more than tripled in 2024, with 10,004 cases filed—a staggering rise from 3,317 in 2023.1 These scams led to PHP198 million in total financial losses, highlighting the growing sophistication of fraud, particularly consumer fraud and online financial fraud, which together account for 67% of all reported cases. Fraudsters continue to exploit deceptive tactics such as fake online sales, impersonation scams, investment fraud, and phishing to steal sensitive information like passwords and one-time PINs (OTPs).

Sleigh the holidays with the perfect family car

When it comes to family life, space, comfort and convenience are our utmost priority when it comes to choosing a vehicle. Whether it’s weekend getaways or long out-of-town drives this holiday season, the right car can make all the difference. 

Today’s family-friendly vehicles come in all shapes and sizes to match your needs and lifestyle. Here are some options you can consider when choosing a car for your family.

Spend Smart, Stress Less: Simplify your holiday spending

The holidays are a time to celebrate and give, but they can also get expensive and stressful if we’re not careful. To keep the season joyful (and budget-friendly), a few smart spending habits can go a long way. From setting a holiday budget and organizing your gift list, there’s a way to make the most of the season hassle-free while staying on top of your finances.

Set a budget (and your gift list!)

Setting a holiday budget can feel overwhelming—juggling gift lists, party expenses, and everything in between. The best place to start is knowing who you’re shopping for. Make a list of everyone you’d like to give a gift to and jot down a few budget-friendly ideas for each. Having a clear plan helps you avoid impulse buys and prioritize meaningful presents.

If you’re worried about sticking to your budget, PSBank Mobile app’s fund transfer fea

Simplifying success: PSBank celebrates 64 years of excellence by helping Filipinos realize their financial goals

Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank) marks its 64th anniversary with a continued commitment to delivering simple, reliable, and innovative banking services that help Filipinos achieve their financial goals, from growing their hard-earned money, to homeownership, vehicle financing, and more. 

A Legacy of Financial Growth

PSBank’s sustained financial growth is fueled by strong loan demand and a customer-focused approach. In 2023, the bank achieved a record-high net income of PhP 4.53 billion, a 23% increase from the previous year. The first half of 2024 saw continued success, with net income reaching PhP 2.56 billion. PSBank stands as the leading thrift bank in the Philippines in terms of total assets as of end-March 2024, further cementing its strong position in the consumer banking sector and maintaining leadership in the auto loan market among local thrift banks.

Embracing Digital Banking: The Shift Towards Cashless Transactions in the Philippines

Digital transactions in the Philippines have reached a new milestone, with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reporting a rise in digital payment transactions from 42.1% in 2022 to 52.8% in 2023. This surge has exceeded the BSP's target of digitalizing 50% of payment volumes as part of its Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap 2018-2023.

The convenience and accessibility of mobile apps and online banking have made cashless transactions the preferred payment method for many Filipinos. According to a study, cash usage has declined to 87%, down from 96% in 2022, as consumer habits increasingly favor cashless payments.

However, this rapid shift towards digital banking brings its own set of challenges, particularly in the area of security.

Road trip this long weekend? Here are some tips to keep it hassle-free

With the long weekend coming up, many Filipinos are gearing up for a well-deserved break. Road trips are a popular choice during this time, especially to beach destinations as summer approaches.

Here are some tips to ensure your road trip is smooth sailing:

Plan your route.

Long weekends may involve road closures, maintenance, or construction, so it’s best to check the news for updates. Navigation apps will prove helpful during this time. The holiday rush may also affect traffic, so beat other travelers by leaving earlier, if possible.

Check your car.

A vehicle in top condition will be your best friend during a long journey. Ensure your tires are aligned and balanced, car fluids and battery are secure, and lights and turn signals work. Inspect your car before the trip to ensure everyone’s safety.

LOOK: These hybrid cars let you save the environment and some pocket money while traveling!

Mobility has become more than just going from point A to point B.  In the Philippines, more things have to be considered when traveling such as road traffic, faster routes, fuel expenses, and environmental hazards. With that, more and more alternatives have been introduced such as walking, cycling, and driving electric vehicles.

For the same reasons, Philippine Saving Bank (PSBank) partnered with Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) to offer Say Hi To Hybrid Auto Loan Promo, making Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) like Toyota’s Corolla Cross 1.8V Hybrid and Corolla Altis 1.8V Hybrid CVT more accessible to Filipinos. For its technology, HEVs are easily a better option for sustainable transportation.

PSBank Pre-Owned Auto Mart moved to its new location in Taguig

PSBank’s Pre-Owned Auto Mart recently transferred to its new site and officially opened at 8003 Lands R Us Realty Compound, Manalac Ave., Bagong Tanyag, East Service Road in Taguig City, on May 30.

The new Auto Mart, which sits on a total lot size of 10,900 square meters, has a showroom with a wide range of quality pre-owned vehicles including some of the latest SUV, AUV, and sedan models that are competitively priced to suit every budget and taste. It will also have a well-appointed sales office, the construction of which is currently underway. Meanwhile, a temporary sales office was set up where customers can conveniently transact with sales representatives or use the PSBank e-Bid kiosks installed, another way for them to view, select, and place their bid offer on an array of exclusive pre-owned cars for sale without much hassle.

PSBank helps provide a brighter future to underprivileged children through its CSR partners

Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank) renews support for the welfare of visually impaired, indigent and special children through the Bank’s annual donation to its corporate social responsibility (CSR) partners -- World Vision, Chosen Children Village Foundation, Inc. (CCVFI), and Resources for the Blind, Inc. (RBI).

PSBank donated a total of PhP300,000 to aid these three child-friendly organizations in providing shelter, basic necessities, education, and other special needs for the underprivileged children under their care.

World Vision commits in using the financial assistance to continue their programs for the welfare of underserved Filipino families. The organization spearheads community development initiatives and helps parents find a source of livelihood to better support their kids. They also provide emergency assistance to those affected by natural disasters.

Good-to-Know: How digital solutions can help MSMEs sustain remote business operations

Remote operations for most industries, especially the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) has become the new norm. This compels businesses to manage their operations with help from new solutions that leverage technology. Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank), the thrift banking arm of the Metrobank Group, believes that digital and online solutions can help MSMEs adapt and regain their competitiveness even during a crisis. 

“Nobody knows when this crisis will be over. However, by providing access to the right tools and technology, we can help our entrepreneurs weather the storm and allow their businesses to survive and thrive amid the pandemic and its subsequent restrictions,” says PSBank Senior Vice President for Marketing Noel Tuazon.   

PSBank made QR feature available in its Mobile app for safer banking in the new normal

Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank), the consumer banking arm of the Metrobank Group, made QR facility available in its Mobile App with the aim to provide another safe and secure way to bank amid the current health crisis situation. 

With this new digital service, customers no longer need to leave the comforts of their homes nor worry about their health and safety when managing their finances. 

PSBank Extends its Payment Grace Period for All Loan Clients

With the extension of the Enhanced Community Quarantine from April 13 to 30, 2020 and in compliance with the ‘Bayanihan To Heal As One’ Act, Philippine Savings Bank continues to provide valuable assistance to all of its loan customers during these challenging times.

Loan payments for all types of loans with due dates falling within the new ECQ dates will further get a 30-day grace period. This adds to the loan payment moratorium that the country’s maaasahan bank granted the previous month, for loan dues beginning March 15, 2020.

For more information, visit the PSBank website or facebook.com/psbankofficial or refer to the Frequently Asked Questions below: 

PSBank shares Holy Week schedule and operations adjustment

All PSBank branches nationwide will be closed on April 9 and 10, 2020, in observance of Holy Thursday and Good Friday.

Meanwhile, all ATMs nationwide, with the PSBank Mobile, and PSBank Online (Internet banking) facilities will be available for customers’ banking needs.

Accountholders may visit https://www.psbank.com.ph/atm-branch-finder/ or open the PSBank Mobile App available in App Store and Google Playstore to locate the nearest PSBank Automated Teller Machine (ATM) in their area.

Meanwhile, the bank will also conduct the following service adjustments during Holy Week adjustments: 

Payroll crediting on April 9 and 10 will still proceed. 

This 2020, Save Up to Level Up with PSBank

Each new year comes with the promise of a better future for many individuals and families. To most, it is the opportune time to achieve new goals, to upgrade standards of living, and to seize new, exciting opportunities.

PSBank, everyone’s “simpleng maaasahan” bank recognizes the importance of this period, marked by resolutions and commitments—and invites all to make a firm, positive decision to progress in the attainment of their aspirations, through the act of purposefully saving money.

PSBank Holiday Schedules

Heads up to PSBank clients, this is inform you that all PSBank branches will be closed on December 24, 25, 30 & 31, 2019 and on January 1, 2020.  Meanwhile, all our 557 ATMs, PSBank Mobile, and PSBank Online (Internet banking) facilities will be available for your banking needs.

Details of the bank holiday are as follows:

PSBank: Keep hackers away this Christmas

As the holiday season draws near, Filipinos are expected to once again spend more money as they buy presents and prepare for their get-togethers and celebrations. This culture of gift giving has always fueled one of the happiest peaks of the year, and has undoubtedly carved its way into the hearts of many families, loved ones, and friends. However, with the rising number of purchases and transactions, the holiday season has also become a prime time for criminals to do their worst.

Just this August, the government signed Republic Act No. 11449 into law, proclaiming that bank hacking is now a heinous crime punishable by life imprisonment, with a fine of up to PhP 5 million. In support of this act, PSBank shares timely tips to ensure that your hard-earned funds are always well protected.

Why You Should Try e-Payment: 5 Reasons

After all the big advances in technology, it’s no surprise that the banking industry has adapted to keep up with progress.  Financial institutions have digitized processes and even developed modern, feature-packed apps to make services more accessible to an ever-growing customer base.

PSBank is one of these progressive financial institutions; as an industry leader, it continues to sharpen its focus to promote the utilization of electronic channels. Its efforts are in support of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ goal to increase the adoption of digital transactions in the country.

The Bank’s recently-upgraded Mobile App, for instance, is designed for effective, safe, real-time banking – offering a full suite of innovative services with easy-to-navigate enhancements and security features that allow its customers to focus on the moments that truly matter.

PSBank’s Sixth Sense Wins at the 2019 PANAta Awards

PSBank recently won a Bronze “Brand Builder” award for Excellence in Brand Positioning at the 2019 PANAta Awards – the premier industry recognition program of the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA) – for its highly-successful Sixth Sense campaign, which effectively positioned how easy and fast it is to get a home loan with the bank.

The short film-driven campaign, which was launched online and on TV, received an abundance of positive feedback for its creative, humorous, and effective attempt to communicate how clients can overcome the fear of a long waiting time for loan approval, through PSBank’s one-day credit decision capability.

PSBank’s Sixth Sense Wins at the 2019 PANAta Awards

PSBank recently won a Bronze “Brand Builder” award for Excellence in Brand Positioning at the 2019 PANAta Awards – the premier industry recognition program of the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA) – for its highly-successful Sixth Sense campaign, which effectively positioned how easy and fast it is to get a home loan with the bank.

The short film-driven campaign, which was launched online and on TV, received an abundance of positive feedback for its creative, humorous, and effective attempt to communicate how clients can overcome the fear of a long waiting time for loan approval, through PSBank’s one-day credit decision capability.