BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO) has strengthened its position as a key player in supporting foreign business growth in the Philippines through a new partnership with Japan’s Ashikaga Bank, Ltd. (ABL). The two banks signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on December 23, 2024, aimed at providing critical banking support to Japanese companies looking to establish or expand operations in the Philippines.
The partnership is particularly significant as it marks the 17th collaboration between BDO and a Japanese bank, underscoring BDO’s leading role in facilitating cross-border business opportunities. ABL, a regional banking giant based in Tochigi Prefecture, serves over 70,000 corporate clients and will leverage BDO’s extensive local presence to help Japanese companies access the Philippine market.
This collaboration is expected to fuel new investments and business partnerships, with BDO offering specialized banking services through its Japan Desk, which is staffed by Japanese-speaking relationship managers. As the Philippines’ largest bank by total assets, BDO’s resources, including a vast branch network and advanced digital banking services, will further enhance the ease of doing business for Japanese enterprises.
For consumers, the partnership could lead to increased services and investment opportunities in the Philippines, as Japanese companies tap into the growing market and expand their offerings in the region.
