BSP assures public of no disruption in services despite pandemic ‘bubble’

MANILA, Philippines—The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Wednesday (March 24) vowed to continue providing “unhampered services” to keep the financial system running smoothly despite the government imposing a new round of restrictions on the movement of people in response to a surge in COVID-19 cases.

In a statement, the BSP sought to assure the public that it will continue to perform its tasks to keep the economy functioning “while safeguarding the welfare” of BSP employees and frontline workers.

In response to the recent rise in coronavirus infections cases in the country, BSP said it will observe alternative work arrangements at its head office in Manila and security plant complex in Quezon City until March 31.

Employees from the BSP’s mission-critical departments and support units will continue to report on-site, as appropriate, while strictly observing Department of Health-mandated health protocols.

These health protocols, which the BSP has adopted since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, included frequent disinfection of all premises and active testing, tracing and quarantine procedures.

The BSP is also coordinating with the banking industry to ensure the continuous delivery of financial services, as it urged banks to observe heed health protocols to protect its employees and clients against COVID-19.

Moreover, the BSP said it continues to encourage the use of digital banking facilities to allow the public to carry out needed financial transactions safely amid the health crisis.

“The BSP, together with the banking industry, stands ready to ensure the safe and smooth functioning of the banking system,” the agency said.

TSB