MANILA, Philippines - The Bankers Institute of the Philippines (BAIPHIL) has awarded Citi as the Best in Technology Innovation during the 1st Green Bank Challenge. Citi was hailed as a green bank champion, cited for its smart branch in Makati, which boasts of best in class technological solutions. The challenge was established to encourage the participation of the banking community in adopting environment-friendly practices in their day-to-day operations, as well as encourage investments and support for environment-related causes. In 2012, Citi scored an industry first with the opening of the smart branch in its flagship Makati branch. Popular features include an interactive media wall, instant account opening stations and video chat facilities designed to attract, engage and connect clients with products and services, all on demand. Aside from paperless online banking stations, the branch also offers earth-friendly features such as energy efficient interior and exterior lighting systems and carpets made from 70-percent recycled materials.