BAP bares NCR banks’ schedule of operations on APEC meetings
The Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) announced yesterday the schedule of operations of commercial banks in connection with the APEC meetings covered by Proclamation No. 1072 declaring 18 and 19 November 2015 as Special (Non-Working) Days in the National Capital Region (NCR); and Memorandum Circular No. 84 suspending work in government offices including government-owned or controlled corporations on 17 and 20 November, 2015 in the national capital region (NCR) as follow:
•Banking operations of commercial banks in the National Capital Region (NCR): Branches of various commercial banks in Metro Manila will operate on a 'business as usual' mode on Nov. 17 and 20 (Tuesday and Friday). Since private banks are officially covered by the holiday declaration on Nov. 18 and 19 (Wednesday and Thursday), selected bank branches will be open on these two dates to continue serving their clients and the general public
•Provincial or branches of commercial banks outside of Metro Manila will observe the regular banking hours on Nov. 17 to 20 during the 4-day APEC meetings.
•FX and Bond Trading: In line with BSP Memorandum No. M-20I5038 dated 26 October 2015, Foreign Exchange (FX) and Bond/Government Securities trading are suspended during the 4-day APEC meetings.
•Clearing of Checks and Settlement: The Philippine Clearing House Corp. (PCHC) will operate on Nov. 17 and 20 to accept and process checks sent for clearing by banks.
•Banks have put into place mechanisms to ensure availability of cash in their ATMs and to address security concerns, as their usual practice during long holidays.
The BAP urges the banking public to check with their respective banks as to what branches will be open and the financial services that would be available during the APEC meeting. The public is likewise encouraged to watch out for advisories and other announcements from the banks in the newspapers, bank websites, television, radio and other electronic means to be guided accordingly.