Metrobank, Visa offer Visa/Plus ATM service

Metrobank, the country’s largest bank, and Visa International jointly announced that local currency cash dispensing service is now available through the Visa/PLUS network at the bank’s over 600 automated teller machines, called Metrobank E.T. nationwide.

PLUS is Visa’s global mark for ATMs. Cardholders can use their Visa (including Visa Electron) or PLUS-branded ATM card issued by their financial institution for cash withdrawals in local currency anytime, seven days a week. PLUS is an acceptance mark that may be used alone or in combination with other marks, such as Visa flag or Visa Electron, to expand a card’s utility for cardholders. Currently, there are over one billion Visa or PLUS cards around the world that can access the global Visa/PLUS network of 840,000 ATMs.

Angelito Villanueva, senior executive vice president of Metrobank said, "Metrobank is pleased to partner with Visa in offering the Visa/Plus functionality at our more than 600 ATMs. Visa/PLUS cardholders visiting the Philippines from anywhere around the world will have access to their accounts and withdraw cash round-the-clock. During their trips, whether around Metro Manila or in the countryside, they will find great buys and experiences that are available only for cash. And they will find a Metrobank E.T., from which they can withdraw pesos, just about anywhere."

June Seah, senior manager South East Asia of Visa Asia Pacific said, "Visa is delighted to team up with Metropolitan Bank to expand the Visa/PLUS ATM service in the Philippines. Metropolitan Bank is one of the Visa’s key member bank in the Philippines with an established Visa card issuance and acquiring business. With Metropolitan Bank’s 600 ATMs joining the network, Visa or PLUS cardholders will now have access to more than 1,200 ATMs nationwide.

"One of Visa’s key initiatives in the Philippines is working with member financial institutions to expand card acceptance and ATM network, providing enhanced financial services for local and international cardholders. Visa is committed to helping the Philippines strengthen its position as a tourist destination for both domestic and overseas visitors. Our alliance with Metropolitan Bank has come at a very timely moment when Visa is currently partnering the Philippines Department of Tourism as the Preferred Card and Sponsor of WOW Philippines Shopping Fiesta 2003."