When we talk about banks in the Philippines, one name that often comes up is BDO. But did you know there are actually two different banks with the BDO name? These are BDO Unibank and BDO Network Bank. They sound similar, but they serve different purposes and customers.
Let’s us understand what is the difference between bdo unibank and bdo network bank in simple and easy-to-understand language.
BDO Unibank: The Big Bank
1. Overview
BDO Unibank, often just called BDO, is the largest bank in the Philippines. It’s a universal bank, which means it offers a wide range of financial services. These services include savings and checking accounts, loans, credit cards, insurance, and investment products. BDO Unibank is a one-stop shop for almost any financial need you might have.
2. Target Customers
BDO Unibank mainly serves individuals, businesses, and corporations. It caters to people who live in urban areas and need a variety of banking services. For example, if you need a loan to buy a car, a savings account to keep your money safe, and a credit card for everyday purchases, BDO Unibank has you covered.
3. Branch Network
BDO Unibank has a vast network of branches and ATMs across the Philippines. You can find their branches in almost every city and major town. This makes it very convenient for customers to access their services, whether you’re in Metro Manila or another urban area.
4. Services Offered
- Savings and Checking Accounts: You can open accounts to save your money or handle your daily transactions.
- Loans: They offer personal loans, home loans, car loans, and business loans.
- Credit Cards: BDO has a variety of credit cards to suit different needs and spending habits.
- Investments: You can invest in mutual funds, stocks, and other financial products.
- Insurance: They also offer life and non-life insurance products to protect you and your assets.
Also read: What is the Difference Between Nre and Nro Account?
BDO Network Bank: The Rural Bank
1. Overview
BDO Network Bank is a subsidiary of BDO Unibank. It was formerly known as One Network Bank (ONB) before BDO acquired it. BDO Network Bank focuses on serving the needs of people in rural areas. It aims to provide accessible banking services to those who live outside the big cities.
2. Target Customers
BDO Network Bank primarily serves individuals and small businesses in rural and semi-urban areas. The goal is to reach people who might not have easy access to the large banks in the cities. For instance, if you are a farmer, a small business owner, or someone living in a small town, BDO Network Bank is designed to meet your banking needs.
3. Branch Network
While BDO Network Bank does not have as many branches as BDO Unibank, it strategically places its branches in rural areas where big banks might not be present. This helps bring banking services closer to people who need them the most.
4. Services Offered
- Savings Accounts: Simple savings accounts that are easy to open and manage.
- Loans: They offer microloans and other loan products that cater to the needs of small businesses and individuals in rural areas.
- ATM Services: Providing convenient access to cash through ATMs in rural locations.
- Remittance Services: Helping people send and receive money, which is crucial for families with members working in different parts of the country or abroad.
What is the Difference Between Bdo Unibank and Bdo Network Bank?
1. Size and Reach
- BDO Unibank: The largest bank with a widespread presence in cities and urban centers.
- BDO Network Bank: Smaller, with a focus on rural and semi-urban areas.
2. Target Audience
- BDO Unibank: Caters to a wide range of customers including individuals, businesses, and large corporations.
- BDO Network Bank: Focuses on individuals and small businesses in rural areas.
3. Services
- BDO Unibank: Offers a comprehensive range of banking, investment, and insurance products.
- BDO Network Bank: Provides essential banking services with a focus on savings and small loans.
4. Purpose
- BDO Unibank: Aims to be a universal bank providing all types of financial services.
- BDO Network Bank: Focuses on financial inclusion by reaching underserved communities in rural areas.
Also read: What is The Difference Between Internship and Externship
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between BDO Unibank and BDO Network Bank is important for choosing the right banking services for your needs. If you live in a city and need a variety of banking products, BDO Unibank is likely the best choice. On the other hand, if you’re in a rural area and need basic banking services, BDO Network Bank is designed to serve you better.
Both banks are part of the BDO family, so you can expect reliable and trustworthy service. They just have different focuses and strengths, which allows them to cater to different segments of the population effectively. Whether you’re in the city or the countryside, there’s a BDO bank ready to meet your needs.
