City Savings Bank (CitySavings), the thrift bank arm of the Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines, has strengthened its commitment to promote quality education by supporting the construction and refurbishment of more than 30 learning spaces nationwide last year.
Through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the transformed learning spaces will benefit more than 2,500 teachers and nearly 44,000 learners, aligning with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) five-point agenda to address basic education challenges.
“CitySavings remains steadfast in our commitment to actively support DepEd’s programs. By co-creating safe and empowered learning spaces, we are investing in the future of every Filipino learner,” shared CitySavings President and CEO Manuel Santiago, Jr.
In 2025, the Bank significantly contributed to major construction projects at Bashoy Elementary School in Kabayan, Benguet, and Santiago South Central School in Santiago City, Isabela. The project also reached several schools in Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Bulacan, Tarlac, Laguna, Albay, Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Southern Leyte, Davao del Norte, South Cotabato, Lanao del Norte, and Surigao del Norte for repairs and refurbishments.
Bashoy Elementary School is also a beneficiary of Aboitiz Foundation’s AuroraPH, which brings renewable energy and internet connectivity to remote learning communities. A solar panel and satellite internet connection were installed in this school building, extending the reach of reliable energy and digital access to learners and teachers in the area.
Hope Beyond Infrastructure
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to City Savings Bank for their unwavering support that goes beyond infrastructure; it inspires hope and a positive change. Your assistance leaves a lasting impact on the lives of our learners and the entire school community,” said Principal Melozar Dizon of Santiago South Central School, Santiago City, Isabela.
“At a time when resources were scarce and the needs were many, City Savings Bank stepped in without hesitation. The Bank immediately assisted in replacing the damaged corrugated sheets. This act was not just about providing materials; it was about giving our learners a safe space to dream, learn, and grow despite the disaster that had shaken our community,” shared School Head Dennis Calataro of Old Fabrica Elementary School, La Castellana, Negros Occidental.
In Davao del Norte, Principal Manuel Esperanza of Panabo City National High School emphasized the importance of bayanihan in creating a safe and healthy learning environment. “The donation of construction materials will allow us to have a more comfortable and fully-functional school clinic. Thank you, City Savings Bank, for being a committed partner in education, going beyond providing financial services for teachers,” he noted during the official turnover.
For 2026, CitySavings reaffirms its support for DepEd’s Adopt-a-School Program (ASP) to significantly contribute to more classroom construction and repair projects, with the aim to reach as many learners as possible. As community-centered financial partners, the Bank will continue to provide relevant, accessible, and sustainable CSR programs that elevate the lives of the people it serves.
ABOUT CITY SAVINGS BANK
City Savings Bank, Inc. (CitySavings) is the thrift bank subsidiary of Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) and a member of the Aboitiz Group.
Founded in 1965 in Cebu City by visionary leaders Don Ramon Aboitiz and Teotimo Abellana, CitySavings was built on a foundational commitment to "help people of moderate means."
Today, it is one of the largest thrift banks in the country with more than 150 branches nationwide, providing a wide range of mass market financial products and services.
With its basic philosophy of “Simple is Good”, CitySavings offers its clients simple and straightforward banking, coupled with warm and helpful service, relevant products, and digital innovations to ensure the best customer experience.
As the Bank continues to grow, it remains firmly focused on its ultimate goal: becoming the Philippines' leading mass market bank while fulfilling its deeper purpose of elevating communities through financial inclusion. For more information, visit www.citysavings.com.ph
