BONTOC, Mountain Province – The newly-installed automated teller machine (ATM) at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Office building is now open for utilization with its inauguration on November 6, 2024.
The installation of the ATM became possible as a result of the approval of the request letter sent by Governor Bonifacio C. Lacwasan, Jr. to Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) President Lynette V. Ortiz last August 5, 2024.
The ribbon-cutting-cum-blessing of the ATM was led by Provincial Administrator John K. Likigan, board members Ezra Samson A. Gomez, Joshua B. Fronda, Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) – Northwest Luzon Branch Senior Vice President Maria Belma T. Turla, and LBP-Bontoc Branch Head Randito SJ Dacanay. Board Member Henry D. Bastian, Jr., the department heads and other personnel from provincial government and LBP were also present during the inauguration.
Rev. Fr. Antonio F. Fangkingan, Jr. of the Sta. Rita de Cascia Cathedral officiated the blessing ceremony.
Turla explained that the ATM is functional for cash withdrawals, checking of balance, pay merchandise, and pay loads for Smart and Globe. In addition, Turla said that cash withdrawals up to PhP10,000 per day without ATM cards are also possible so long as the card owner is enrolled in the LBP’s mobile application.
In closing, Likigan, on behalf of the Governor Lacwasan, Jr., extended his earnest gratitude to the LBP headed by its President, Lynnette V. Ortiz, for approving the provincial government’s request for an ATM and for its fast installation. He pointed out the benefit of the inaugurated ATM, most especially in reducing the long queue of ATM users at the LBP-Bontoc Branch Office. In addition, Likigan relayed his hopes that the LPB will continue to cater to the banking needs of the people of Mountain Province.
Meanwhile, another highlight of the inauguration was the tossing of coins. By Hail, MP
