By Joselle R. Badilla
Inquirer Mindanao
ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF SAMAL – HSBC has vowed to “continue to do our part in nation-building” as the bank celebrates its 150th year in the country.
“When we look back to our roots going back to 1875, our vision when we landed in the Philippines in 1875 was to bridge the Philippines to the world and I’m so proud and delighted that even now we continue to do the same. Along with that, we also know that we are a guest in the country and as a good guest, we also ensure that we do all about what we can in nation-building,” Sandeep Uppal, president and CEO of HSBC Philippines, told a pack of business movers and shakers gathered at the grand ballroom of Discovery Samal last June 22.
The celebration in Davao was attended by clients, partners, and business leaders for HSBC’s 150th anniversary campaign which pays tribute to its heritage while embracing a future of inclusive, innovative and globally connected banking.
“HSBC is celebrating 150th (year) of our business in the Philippines. We are proud of it but more importantly we are so thankful to our stakeholders across the Republic of the Philippines for hosting us in the country for so long,” Uppal said.
“Historically we’ve done a lot to nation-building,” Uppal added.
The bank funded the construction in 1883 of the first railway line in the country, which stretched from Dagupan to Manila. That same year, it opened a branch in Iloilo, the first by any bank outside of Manila.
“I’m so proud and so are my colleagues that we continue to do our part to nation-building. We do continue to be steadfast partners of the Philippines,” Uppal said.
Holding the anniversary celebration in Samal underlined HSBC’s commitment to deepen its presence in Davao City which Uppal described as “a gateway to the Far East, to Asean, as far as the Philippines is concerned.”
With good foresight, HSBC set up a branch in Davao in 2007, its first in Mindanao. The branch is now located in Abreeza Ayala Mall from 2022.
“Our 18-year journey in Davao reflects our commitment to stay deeply rooted in communities that are shaping the future of the country, and to help connect them with opportunities not just here, but across Asia, Europe and the US,” Uppal said.
“I would like to assure you that we will continue to invest in Davao because we really believe it is a great city and it’s a great economy and most of all it has fantastic people as we can see in the room today. Many thanks for ensuring that HSBC prospers for 150 years in the Philippines,” he added.
According to Pramoth Rajendran, head of international wealth and premier banking of HSBC Philippines, the city “reflects the very spirit of progress and promise.”
“Our customers here are ambitious, global and passionate about creating a better future for their families. At HSBC, we’re proud to be their partner – whether they’re planning for their children’s education, growing their business or investing across borders,” Rajendran said.
“It’s a privilege to be celebrating this milestone here in Davao,” he added.
A performance by OPM icon, “Mr. Pure Energy” Gary Valenciano, capped the night of milestones and meaningful connections among 300 invited guests.