ONB eyes new branches

One Network Bank (ONB) is planning another five new branches next year to boost its branch network to 75.

It is also eyeing to break the 100-unit mark in the number of automated teller machines (ATMs) deployed.

“We want to grow with Mindanao and we will continue to expand here,” ONB president Alex V. Buenaventura said, during the formal opening of its relocated Zamboanga branch.

From its original site along Gov. Lim St., the branch was relocated to a newer and bigger site along Saavedra St. in Zamboanga City.

In early 2009, ONB is set to open five more new branches in Gingoog in Misamis Oriental; Sindangan in Zamboanga del Norte; Ozamiz City, Surigao City and Dipolog City.

This year, the bank opened new branches in Antipas in North Cotabato; Lagao in General Santos City; Malaybalay City in Bukidnon; Maranding, Lala in Lanao Del Norte, and Kabasalan in Zamboanga Sibugay.

Buenaventura said that they are also studying 35 more sites for new branches to fully saturate Mindanao within the next five years.

ONB presently operates 70 branches and 75 ATMs, making it the largest rural bank in Mindanao.

It is also considered the leader in the country’s rural banking system in terms of equity, income, and size.    – Ted Torres