EastWest Powers Philippine Tourism: Major Sponsor of PTM 2025 with Accessible Finance & Digital Tools

EastWest took part in the opening of the 36th Philippine Travel Mart, standing alongside leaders in advancing travel opportunities and empowering communities through finance, digital solutions, and partnerships.

EastWest joined the Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) 2025 as a major sponsor, backing the growth of tourism through accessible financing, digital tools, and collaborations across the industry. Speaking at the opening ceremony, EastWest CEO Jerry Ngo addressed industry stakeholders with a powerful call to reimagine tourism not just as a destination economy, but as a platform for identity, livelihood, and national pride.

As EastWest CEO Ngo puts it, “Filipino hospitality is never transactional; it is deeply personal. Tourism is not just an industry for us. It is an ecosystem--one we want to nurture from the ground up through partnerships and collaborations.”

A Booth That Travels With You

At PTM 2025, EastWest's dedicated booth offers a gateway to rewarding travel experiences. Visitors can:

• Apply for EastWest credit cards on-site
• Inquire about Personal Loans, Priority Banking, and Travel Insurance products
• Explore exclusive installment promos at select travel merchants

EastWest Early Entrance: Because Travel Should Start Easy

As a special treat, EastWest credit cardholders enjoyed early 9:00-10:00AM access to the exhibit-beating the crowds and grabbing the best deals before general public entry.

This benefit is part of the Bank's broader mission to deliver ease, personalization, and access through its “EasyWay to Bank” platform, enabling smarter travel, better financing options, and seamless digital experiences.

Banking That Goes Further

From travel-ready credit cards and installment options to NFC payments, real-time rewards, and access to airport lounges, EastWest continues to build a travel ecosystem that's not only convenient-but empowering. Its parent company, Filinvest, complements this mission through sustainable tourism investments in hospitality, F&B innovation, and eco-conscious infrastructure development.

Partnering for Progress

“Tourism thrives when government, LGUs, communities, transport, technology, and yes, banks come together,” Ngo noted. “If we nurture it, if we empower it with the right financial tools, the right partnerships, and the right spirit, then tourism will not just grow - it will transform lives.”

By sponsoring PTM 2025, EastWest not only supports tourism promotion, it actively contributes to tourism empowerment through financial tools, digital channels, and community development.

“At EastWest, we help power transformations,” said Ngo.

EastWest Trust and Asset Management Group Honored for Best Discretionary & Advisory Service Offering at Global Private Banking Innovation Awards 2025

Raffy S. Algarra Jr., EastWest Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management, go up on stage to receive the Best Discretionary & Advisory Services Offering Award at the Global Private Banking Innovation Awards 2025.

East West Banking Corporation proudly announces that its Trust and Asset Management Group (TAMG) has received the prestigious Best Discretionary & Advisory Service Offering award at the 2025 Global Private Banking Innovation Awards, marking another significant milestone in the Bank’s growing legacy of excellence in wealth and investment management.

Despite operating with a lean team of just 33 officers, EastWest TAMG manages an impressive asset base having achieved  significant year-on-year growth in 2024. Over the past five years, TAMG has averaged  better than market AUM growth, reflecting both disciplined investment strategies and consistent fund performance. This global recognition reinforces TAMG’s vision of delivering strategic, client-centric investment solutions that drive meaningful outcomes for both institutional and retail clients.

“This award is a reflection of the trust our clients place in us, and the discipline and innovation our team brings to every portfolio,” said Raul Victor De Guzman, Head of Trust and Asset Management Group at EastWest. “We are proud to deliver institutional-grade investment solutions that remain accessible, cost-effective, and tailored for the Filipino investor.”

EastWest Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management, Raffy S. Algarra Jr., shared his view on the recent recognition: “At EastWest, we believe that financial empowerment should be accessible to every Filipino. This award affirms that our approach, grounded in trust, deep expertise, and genuine accessibility, is resonating with clients. The success of our Trust and Asset Management Group speaks to the kind of value we strive to create, always in step with our customers and their goals.”

Driving Superior Investment Performance

Among its most notable accomplishments in 2024, four unit-linked insurance funds managed by TAMG for bancassurance partner EastWest Ageas outperformed their respective peer groups:

• The Equity VUL Fund, which tracks the Philippine Stock Exchange Index, posted a remarkably low tracking error of 0.0079%, the best in its category.
• The High Dividend Equity VUL Fund delivered a 19.23% return, outperforming its closest competitor by 711 basis points.
• The Peso Active Equity VUL Fund beat its peer by 155 basis points with a return of 7.43%.
• The Dollar Income Payout Fund generated a 7.05% return net of payouts, 349 basis points higher than its closest peer.

Innovation and Accessibility in Investment

TAMG’s comprehensive suite includes Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITFs), investment management accounts, fiduciary services, and escrow arrangements tailored for a wide spectrum of client needs, from institutional investors to individual clients planning their financial future.

In 2025 and beyond, EastWest TAMG plans to launch new investment products, including actively managed and PERA UITFs, gold investment options, and deeper integration with Komo, EastWest’s digital banking platform. This will make investment opportunities even more accessible, especially for a younger, digitally enabled market.

In parallel, the group is expanding its portfolio sales team and automating operational workflows to increase both client service levels and investment research capacity.

Market-Leading Efficiency and Value

Setting itself apart in a competitive market, TAMG also offers one of the lowest trust fees in the Philippine market at just 0.9%, compared to the average 1.7% charged by competitors. This efficient model allows clients to maximize returns, further strengthening TAMG’s value proposition.

EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Credit Card Launch: A Winning Partnership for Smarter Spending and More Rewards

EastWest and Puregold Price Club, Inc. have officially launched the EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Credit Card, the latest game-changing financial tool designed to give shoppers even greater rewards and savings.

(L-R) Issa Gotianun Yap (EastWest Head of Strategy and Transformation), Jerry Ngo (EastWest CEO), Ferdinand Vincent Co (Puregold President), and Ivy Piedad (Puregold Head of Marketing) mark the official launch of a partnership built on shared values of value, trust, and everyday wins.

The much-anticipated launch event held last April 3, 2025 at Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, brought together executives from EastWest and Puregold, media representatives, and industry leaders to celebrate a winning partnership aimed at delivering unparalleled value and always going further for Filipino consumers nationwide. 

Jerry Ngo, EastWest’s CEO
EastWest CEO Jerry Ngo celebrates another milestone in the Bank’s mission to go “Further For You,” ushering in a new era of rewarding financial solutions through this exclusive collaboration with Puregold.

“This card is a collaboration between EastWest and Puregold that delivers practical, real-world benefits. It turns regular grocery runs into opportunities to earn cash rebates, which can be converted into Puregold P-Wallet credits, helping cardholders stretch their budgets while enjoying the ease of cashless payments. This partnership is rooted in the shared goal of serving real Filipino households. Something Puregold has done for years by being a dependable part of their everyday routines,” shared Jerry Ngo, EastWest CEO, during his opening speech.

The EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Credit Card turns every checkout into a win. With its industry leading Php30 is to 1 rewards point conversion for purchases at Puregold and Php100 is to 1 rewards point for all other transactions, grocery shopping and everyday spending become even more rewarding. Cardholders can also accumulate up to Php 3,000 in their Puregold P-Wallet monthly when they convert their rewards points at a 1 Rewards Point to Php1 conversion rate—ensuring more savings with every purchase.

The launch event featured a ceremonial card unveiling, a media roundtable discussion led by key executives, and activities that kept the energy high throughout the celebration. A specially produced jingle for the EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Credit Card was also introduced and will be played in Puregold stores nationwide.

Lawrence Lee, EastWest’s Head of Consumer Lending Cluster 
EastWest Head of Consumer Lending Cluster Lawrence Lee shares his excitement about the Always Panalo partnership, highlighting the many ways this collaboration brings real wins to Filipino consumers.

“The EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Credit Card maximizes every peso spent, making shopping for the family more rewarding. For every transaction brings you closer to bigger savings and exclusive perks,” said Lawrence Lee, EastWest EVP and Head of Consumer Lending Cluster.

The event was also yet another perfect milestone during EastWest’s 30-year anniversary celebration, marking three decades of going further for Filipinos by introducing innovative banking solutions that empower customers to achieve more.

(L-R) Jeffrey Navarro (Visa Country Manager), Mia Tamayo (EastWest Head of Credit Cards), Lawrence Lee (EastWest Head of Consumer Lending), Issa Gotianun Yap (EastWest Head of Strategy and Transformation), Jerry Ngo (EastWest CEO), Ferdinand Vincent Co (Puregold President), and Ivy Piedad (Puregold Head of Marketing) come together to celebrate a truly winning partnership—bringing Filipinos the power of smart spending and unbeatable perks

The EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Credit Card is now available for application, allowing shoppers to experience a more rewarding way to pay. Consumers can visit any Puregold branch nationwide or go to https://ewbank.cc/puregold-eng to apply and start enjoying the exclusive perks 

For more information, visit eastwestbanker.com or follow EastWest and Puregold’s official social media pages for updates and promotions.

EastWest’s Dream Run 2025 Set to Take Over Davao, Cebu, and Manila

 

The highly anticipated EastWest Dream Run 2025 is set to bring together thousands of running enthusiasts across three major cities—Davao (April 6), Cebu (May 4), and Manila (June 15). Organized in partnership with RUNRIO, this milestone event is a key part of EastWest’s 30th Anniversary celebrations and also aligns with the 70th Anniversary of its parent company, Filinvest. Through this event, EastWest continues to expand its efforts in promoting health, fitness, and community engagement across the country.

“At EastWest, we believe in empowering Filipinos—not just financially, but in every aspect of their lives. The EastWest Dream Run 2025 is a reflection of our mission to help individuals push their limits, whether in their financial journey or their pursuit of health and wellness,” shares Martin Reyes, EastWest SVP and Head of Marketing and Cash Management.

A Race for Everyone

With distances of 1K, 2K, 5K, 10K, and 30K, the EastWest Dream Run welcomes participants of all levels—from casual joggers to seasoned athletes. A special highlight this year is the 1K Dog Run, giving runners the chance to share the experience with their dogs in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. For those seeking a challenge, the 30K category provides an opportunity to test endurance.

Each runner will receive a limited-edition race kit, which includes a premium singlet, race bib, and loot bag. Finishers will take home the exclusive Dreamcatcher medal, designed as a symbol of perseverance and the pursuit of personal goals. Additionally, 30K runners will receive a special Finisher’s Shirt, and top finishers in each category will be awarded prizes from EastWest.

Beyond the race, participants can look forward to lively post-run festivities, including live entertainment, food trucks, and a dynamic community atmosphere that celebrates camaraderie and shared achievements. A portion of the proceeds will also support EastWest’s community initiatives, making every step taken in the EastWest Dream Run a step toward a greater cause.

More Than Just a Run

The EastWest Dream Run’s three-city format aligns with the Bank’s hyperlocal strategy, strengthening its presence in key regions while fostering deeper connections with local communities. By hosting the event in Davao, Cebu, and Manila, EastWest aims to inspire Filipinos to prioritize health, wellness, and financial empowerment—proving that progress happens step by step, whether in running or in life.

Registration is ongoing via the official EastWest Dream Run website (www.eastwestbanker.com/dream-run2025).

EastWest Employee-Athlete Shines in International Dragon Boat Championships, Contributes to Philippines’ Historic Victory

EastWest proudly celebrated the recent achievements of Peter Arreglado, a dedicated member of their Cebu office’s Real and Other Properties Acquired (ROPA) team, who played a key role in leading the Philippines to an impressive victory at the 2024 International Canoe Federation (ICF) Dragon Boat World Championships held in Puerto Princesa.

The Philippines led the medal standings with an impressive 11 gold medals, showcasing the country’s strength in dragon boat racing and the remarkable talent and resilience of employee-athletes like Peter. Notably, he earned three medals across different events: a silver in the 200-meter small boat, a bronze in the 500-meter small boat, and another bronze in the 2000-meter standard boat.

Peter, who has been an active paddler since 2019, fulfilled a lifelong dream by participating in this prestigious global competition. Selected through a rigorous national selection process, he was honored to be part of the Master’s National Team, representing both the Philippines and EastWest on the international stage. “Being part of this historic event is already like winning a gold medal,” Peter shared, reflecting on the significance of his journey and the pride he feels in contributing to the country’s success.

EastWest extended full support to Peter’s training and preparation, providing him with a flexible work schedule and additional financial assistance to ensure he could balance his professional responsibilities with the demands of intensive training. “EastWest’s support in my training made it possible for me to focus on what mattered—giving my best performance at the World Championships. My success in this competition was made possible thanks to our team effort and their sponsorship in terms of fitness, gym access, personal trainers, and other aspects,” he noted. “This opportunity is a dream come true, and I am deeply grateful for the backing I received from my team and the management at EastWest. I’m so grateful for the chance to work with Eastwest, and for having great leaders, especially from the top level.”

The values of teamwork, resilience, and strong leadership, central to the sport of dragon boat racing, align closely with EastWest’s corporate culture.

“Dragon boat racing is a team sport that requires unity and persistence, values I experience every day in my work at EastWest,” Peter explained. “Having a supportive environment at work has empowered and allowed me to pursue my passion in both my athletic and professional life.”

In addition to his personal triumphs, Peter hopes that his participation will inspire his colleagues and the broader community at EastWest to engage in even more athletic pursuits and strive for excellence. “I hope that my achievements encourage other sports enthusiasts among EastWest’s workforce and employees, showing the rest of our community that the bank is wholeheartedly supportive of our interests beyond the workplace,” he added.

EastWest Human Resources Head Alfie Suarez explained the significance of Peter’s triumph, sharing that "At EastWest, we believe in fostering a culture that values dedication, resilience, and teamwork—qualities exemplified by our very own Peter Arreglado and the entire Philippine team at the 2024 International Canoe Federation Dragon Boat World Championships. Their hard work and commitment to excellence inspire us all, and we are incredibly proud of Peter’s accomplishment as he brings this international recognition not only to our country but also to the EastWest family."

Looking ahead, Peter envisions more opportunities to represent both the country and EastWest in future competitions, with hopes to participate in upcoming invitational races abroad and continue his dragon boat journey at the next World Championships in Canada.

With his success, and in celebration of its 30th anniversary, EastWest once again reaffirms its commitment to supporting its employees in their personal and professional endeavors, celebrating each milestone as they go “Further for You.”

Other premiere clubs that EastWest is currently supporting include the EastWest Motion Dance Group, the EastWest Voices Choir, the EastWest Click Photography Club, the EastWest Milers Running Club, the EastWest Racquets Badminton Club, the EastWest Hoops Basketball Club, and the EastWest Pisotivity Club for Investment Enthusiasts.

Beyond Gold: Carlos Yulo Joins EastWest as Newest Brand Ambassador

EastWest’s newest ambassador, world-class Olympic champion gymnast Carlos Yulo (center), joins EastWest executives and media partners at the 'Beyond Gold' launch event. In addition to celebrating Yulo’s remarkable achievements, the event emphasizes the Bank’s dedication to delivering exceptional financial services that empower Yulo and its customers to reach their dreams.

EastWest, one of the country’s most consumer-focused and fastest growing universal banks, proudly introduced elite gymnast and two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo as its newest brand ambassador during an exclusive launch event held in Makati. The event celebrated Carlos Yulo’s historic athletic achievements and his inspiring financial journey as an EastWest client, making him the perfect embodiment of the Bank’s mission of nurturing dreams by championing sensible financial management for over thirty years.

With his exceptional rise in the field, Yulo has made a significant mark on the global stage, representing the Philippines worldwide. His dedication to his art and commitment to excellence align perfectly with EastWest’s values of pushing boundaries and striving for greatness. Just as Carlos Yulo excels as a world-class athlete, EastWest offers world-class services, always going further to empower Filipinos with the financial tools and guidance they need to achieve their dreams.

Yulo shared, “Itong partnership really started before ko po nakuha ang gold medals ko sa Olympics.  Talagang tinulungan ako ng EastWest from the start na maayos yung financial goals ko. Madami akong natutunan sa kanila, nag simula lang ako ng simpleng deposit ngayon meron na akong mga investments na nakatulong talaga sa plans ko. Pareho kami ng mindset ng EastWest, always pushing ourselves to improve. Kaya this partnership comes in so natural sa kin, pareho kaming may relentless drive na magtuloy tuloy hanggang makamit namin ang dreams namin.”

(L-R) Jerry Ngo, CEO; Mia Tamayo, Head of Credit Cards Business; Ivy Uy, Head of Branch Banking Group; Lawrence Lee, Head of Consumer Lending; Carlos Yulo, EastWest Brand Ambassador; Isabelle Gotianun-Yap, Chief Strategy & Transformation Officer; Jacqueline Fernandez, President; Cristina Que Orbeta, Independent Director; and Martin Reyes, Head of Marketing and Cash Management, proudly take the stage during the 'Beyond Gold' event, celebrating the official introduction of Carlos Yulo as EastWest’s newest ambassador and reinforcing the bank’s focus on supporting its clients, championing excellence and promoting financial empowerment.

A Partnership Built on Shared Values

The event highlighted the distinct connection between Yulo and EastWest. From simply being a customer, he is now the face of the brand. His discipline, perseverance, and focus on the mastery of his craft, evidenced by his rigorous training, is mirrored by the Bank — persistently supporting clients’ financial journeys to ensure that they can confidently pursue their own goals.

EastWest SEVP and Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management, Rafael S. Algarra Jr., expressed the significance of the partnership, stating, “Carlos Yulo represents the dedication and passion that EastWest stands for. His journey from having raw potential to being a world champion reflects the same path we aim to provide for our clients—guiding them toward financial success, whether through our Priority services, consumer loans, or investment management. We believe this partnership exemplifies our service commitment—always pushing further for our clients so they can achieve their goals.”

(L-R) Jerry Ngo, CEO; Carlos Yulo, EastWest Brand Ambassador; Jacqueline Fernandez, President; and Martin Reyes, Head of Marketing and Cash Management, share the spotlight at the 'Beyond Gold' event. 

Carlos Yulo's Inspiring Financial Journey

Yulo’s partnership with the Bank also highlights his personal journey of financial growth and empowerment. He started with basic banking products to save and pay for expenses while training and competing.  As his financial capacity grew, he relied on the help of a dedicated EastWest Priority Relationship Manager to give him financial advice. With guidance, Yulo transitioned into investments, ensuring that his earnings were wisely managed, while he focused on training. Yulo shared, “Si EastWest po talaga has been so helpful in my journey—not just as an athlete, but also in managing my finances. Tinulungan po nila ako maging smart sa financial decisions ko and magkaroon ng solid financial plan and dahil dito, naka focus ako sa training and competitions ko. Nung nagsimula akong kumita, hindi ko talaga alam kung paano i-manage ng maayos ang pera ko. I had deposit accounts and a credit card with EastWest. Pero na-realize ko na kailangan ko ng mas malalim na understanding para mapalago yung pinaghirapan ko. Buti na lang, EastWest Priority assigned me a relationship manager who really guided me. Siya ang nagturo sa akin about investments and how I can grow my savings para I’m financially prepared.”

EastWest CEO Jerry Ngo delivers his welcoming remarks, emphasizing the bank’s focus on excellence and its partnership with Carlos Yulo as they embark on a journey to empower Filipinos in achieving their financial goals.

EastWest: Celebrating 30 Years of Financial Excellence

As EastWest celebrates its 30th anniversary, their partnership with the Olympian marks another milestone. For three decades, EastWest has consistently provided its clients with personalized services that guide them through every stage of their financial journey, and clients like Yulo are proof of their commitment. While embracing innovation and adapting to the evolving needs of their clients, EastWest ensures that they never lose the human touch, balancing cutting-edge solutions with the warmth and care that have always defined their approach.

EastWest CEO Jerry Ngo shares, "Carlos Yulo embodies resilience, focus, and the pursuit of excellence—values EastWest has upheld for the last 30 years. As we continue to innovate and grow, we proudly welcome Carlos as a partner who not only stands for athletic success but also a commitment to smart financial growth. Together, we aim to inspire Filipinos to push their boundaries and achieve their financial dreams with EastWest by their side."