H A G I T P a g e | 1

HAGIT

st THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF 1 VALLEY BANK APRIL 2009

1VB CONDUCTS SIMULATED

BRANCH OPERATIONS TRAINING

By: Emily E. Enad .

The 1st Valley Bank Institute for

Training has recently conducted its Basic Banking

Operations Training Program

(BBOTP) with a new twist.

Instead of the usual ten-day training comprising of lectures and on-the-job training, the

Institute has converted part of its CDO Business Center as a mock branch that simulates branch operations.

Here, a mix of old and new employees are subjected to real life branch operations scenarios where they will have to resolve using the theories The mock branch set-up aims to replicate the best practices of the they have learned from the branches as well as to strengthen the competencies of the staff in training as well as the actual handling the various aspects of banking operations with or without experiences they have in their the aid of technological advances. The end beneficiary of the respective branches. Æ enhanced training program is the lifetime friends of the bank. -

WANT TO KNOW THE SECRET OF HOW TO Save your money at ST SAVE MONEY EFFECTIVELY? Save your future by 1 VALLEY BANK, resisting the urge to spend money unnecessarily. Control your where you can build a lifetime spending and borrowing, and you’ll control your financial future. friendship!

EDITORS JEN R. VALENCIA, EMILY E. ENAD, NOREEN M. LIM, ERVIE E. CANE, KRIS P. VALDEZ VIVIAN V. LIM CONSULTANT H A G I T P a g e | 2

KAPATAGAN BRANCH 1VB NOW ACCEPTS SSS EXPANDS SERVICES AMIDST GLOBAL CRISIS PAYMENTS ACCREDITED BY

The branch has further 1st Valley Bank is now SSS MANILA a proud partner of the strengthened its Social Security System Prior to acceptance of customer services going beyond the call of duty if payments, the Bank (SSS). need be. subjected its staff including Assistant Having been As partner of the local Branch Managers to accredited by the KAPATAGAN BRANCH government, the branch has been helping the main SSS office in the necessary training continues to expand its and orientation. services amidst the global people of Kapatagan Manila last February crisis. improve their sources of 2009, the nineteen livelihood through credit As a result, the financing that stimulates branches of the bank As a matter of fact, it has has started accepting operation had flowed opened its satellite office in economic activities in the area. - payments on 1 March smoothly with clients Aurora in order to reach responding positively and serve its clients. 2009. From: K2 on the service.

BAROY BRANCH GETS BIGGER & BETTER

When every financial institution dreaded the economic crisis, Baroy Branch can only get bigger and better. As a matter of fact, all portfolios of the branch have increased significantly, solid attestation of the continued trust and confidence of its clients.

The Branch has also recently added one (1) teller devoted to Gold & Gems and other services offered through the Bank like money transfers and remittances as well as mobile banking. - BY: INGRID T. SANSON

ON KEEPING A COMMITMENT GOLD & GEMS CONTINUE Keeping a commitment is a major deposit; TO GLITTER breaking one is a withdrawal. In fact, there is probably not a more massive withdrawal than When I was called to perform the task of a Gold to make a commitment to others just to break & Gems appraiser, I had a hard time deciding it. The next time a commitment is made, they whether to accept the responsibilities or not. I won’t believe it anymore. am terrified with the risks that the task entails but I know that overcoming my fear is a great People tend to build their hopes around achievement. commitment particularly those that pertain to their livelihood. If you cultivate the habit of Now into my fourth year of service as Gold & always keeping the commitment you make, Gems appraiser, I find my responsibilities you build bridges of trust that widens the challenging and fulfilling. I am proud to say that understanding between you and other people. for the Gold & Gems portfolio at Kapatagan - Branch has reached Php 3.9 M year ending

BY: LOLOY VARQUEZ 2008.- BY: OSCAR MURALLON

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MOCK BRANCH WE ARE GOOD TO GO TRAINING BY: GLEN C. BUCOG PARTICIPANTS The prospective staff for the soon-to-open Gingoog Branch were the Glen Bucog as the Branch first to undergo the pioneering ‘mock branch training’ held on 5-12 Manager, Liezl Sajulga as the March 2009 at the 1st Valley Bank CDO Business Center in Carmen, GL Bookkeeper, Bliss Maramara Cagayan de Oro City. as the Loans Bookkeeper, Donna Donasco as the Teller, With simulation of actual branch operations, the participants were Jonathan Gorra as the Savings trained on how to operate and run a branch using actual cases and Bookeeper, Carmelita Amante forms. The training enabled the participants to appreciate the best as the Loans Processor with Jay practices of the branches which they can bring to Gingoog when they Aratan and Jesie Gaan as the start operations. Account Specialists. Further, the participants were subjected to using the manual The training starts at 8:00 a.m approach in performing the processes which helped them realize the and ends at most about 6:00 actual flow and channels of all banking transactions. p.m similar to the actual operation hours of the bank. Facilitated by Cynthia Rudinas and Emily Enad, the seven-day training

Gingoog Branch is opening this produced participants who are ready and good to go. - month. -

BISAYA ISPESYAL NI BISDAK (BISAYANG DAKO) ANG CANDIES SA BUUG BRANCH Ni: GLENN G. BAGALOYOS

Ang dugang kinabuhi sa atong pagserbisyo ngadto sa among mga pinangga nga mga customer sa 1ST Valley Bank Buug Branch ang katam-is sa atong mga pahiyum sa atong customer maoy dugang dugo nga magbabalik ang mga customer, ang katam-is sa atong pag-abiabi sa pag-atiman sa ilang panginahanglanon, ang katam-is sa pagdali sa proceso sa ilang panginahanglanon ug ang labaw sa tanan ang katam-is sa mga “candies” nga gibutang imabaw sa lamesa sa manager nga libre sa tanan..

Ang kinabuhi sa candies dugang lamas sa Buug branch sa ilang pagserbisyo sa ilang mga gihigugmang cliente. Ang candies dako ug tabang mintras nagpaabot sila mam og sir sa ilang tuyo sa banko nagkalingaw usab ang ilang mga baba ug ugom sa candy. Dili sila laayon sa paghulat sa ilang tuyo kong kini man deposito, withdrawal, pagprenda sa gold n gems, loans inquiry, loans computation, loan release, gcash, western union ug uban pa. ang uban pa nag-ingon nga maayo ra jud na’ay candy kay “bangilbangil sa gutom manager”. Ang mga anak sa cliente mingturok sa ilang hunahuna nga sige ta balikbalik sa 1st Valley Bank magdeposito kay nay libre nga “candies ug totolate”. Ang uban miingon kani rang bangkoha nga na’ay candies nga gidalit sa ilang mga cliente mintras gahulat ug wala kini sa uban nga mga tulonghaan.

Tungod sa candies nagpasalamat kami nga kini nakatabang sa among mga cliente sa among pagserbisyo sa ila….. salamat sa candies….bow! - H A G I T P a g e | 4

FROM SWEAT TO SWEET DUMALINAO BY: PERLIE BEDUYA BRANCH STAFF 1st Valley Bank -Dumalinao Branch has revved its drive to increase its savings deposit portfolio starting with motorcade and house-to- Branch Manager house campaigns to encourage and entice the local residents to open EDGAR CATILOC accounts or increase their savings at the branch. Assistant Manager PERLIE BEDUYA Motivated and united by a common goal, the staff introduced the GL Bookkeeper ALJEN value of saving, the many benefits the residents can enjoy from the LABANG Loans Bookkeeper bank’s products and services, the mobility and convenience of G- MA. CARMEN CABUNGCANG Cash, as well as the cash in a flash they can get from Gold & Gems. Credit & Collections Assistant GRACE PANTAO Senior The staff is unmindful of their sweat from the scorching heat of the Processor IVY PERALTA Teller sun, the throbbing pain from their swollen muscles brought by their HANNAH OPADA Account massive campaign. Officers AIDNEAR LAPUZ, JOSEPH ARNEL BARNIDO, Their efforts are paying off and their sweat has easily translated into FRED BARRACA, ARDIE sweet returns for the branch. Now more than ever, the branch has WAREN ARNEJO, ALFIE experienced stronger commitment from its clients and within three MANON-OG, Gold & Gems (3) months from the campaign, the branch has registered an MARTINE BACUS increase in deposit of Php 1.6M. Guards FELIPE DULUGUIN, BEN JAYO, MARCELINO All these we attribute to the hard work of each and every member of GARGAR the branch and the support from the upper and top management. -

BUUG BRANCH CELEBRATES 5TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY BY: FILMOR M. GUTANG

March 15, 2009 is a red-letter day for Buug Branch as it celebrates its 5th year anniversary. The celebration started with a thanksgiving mass for the past years of fruitful services and for the brighter years of continued services to the clients.

The branch served snacks to their clients to show their appreciation and gratefulness for their loyal patronage to the bank. The celebration continued with a get together for the staff at Malangas Beach Resort.

Onwards, the staff has reaffirmed their commitment to deliver responsive solutions to the needs of its clients such as the agric supervised credit specifically created for the farmers in the locality, seafarer’s loan to meet the growing needs of the seamen and their families, micro-agric loan for multiple earning clients. The branch continues to provide excellent services such as providing cash in a flash with the Gold & Gems jewelry loan. - H A G I T P a g e | 5 MARGOS BRANCH REWIND BY: ERROL C. DIOSO

dmittedly, it’s hard to take over a branch an increase in PD notwithstanding the re-activation that came from a management that has of our automatic payroll deduction agreement with A become a legend in PAR (Portfolio-At-Risk) the Local Government Unit of Lapuyan. The past fighting and collection monitoring. As a matter of due ratio is maintained at 1% on the average. On fact, almost all staff in the previous management of the other hand, ROPOA decreased by 469K from the branch has been promoted to higher positions. 935K to 466K by year end.

When I took over Margosatubig Branch in 2007, I The branch’s gross income grew by 4.61M on year- knew that I would be facing difficult challenges to-year, from 23.35M to 27.97M while net income especially as far as branch performance in PAR increased by 1.61M from 4.19M to 5.81M. fighting and collection monitoring is concerned. Together with all the new staff of the branch, we have the daunting task to at least maintain the We were not only concerned with the figures, but legendary performance of the previous branch also how our branch have attained said figures. management. With close coordination with our human resources department, we have ensured that each and every member of But we were up to the ݼ...we were up to the challenges the branch strictly complies challenges and we worked and we worked hard, most of with the highest standards of hard, most of the times even the times even doubly hard, to performance, norms of doubly hard, to meet meet expectations.” conduct, and ethics. As a expectations. matter of fact, one employee was discharged for grave offense involving collections. On the other hand, As the year ended in 2008, we were able to our top management recognizes excellent register respectable figures as far as branch performance as four employees of the branch were performance is concerned. Assets grew by 15.48M, promoted- Peter Alfon from Branch Manager to from 98.52M to 114M in December 2008. Loans Senior Management level, Demosthenes Solis from portfolio increased by 16.56M, from 88.32M to Assistant Manager to Branch Manager of Liloy, 104.88M year-end. The increase in loan portfolio Frederick Paringit from Account Officer to came from the following: 2.37M from DepEd, Supervisory Level, and Gia Amabelle Catiloc from 4.54M from LGU, 6.21M from Barangay Livelihood, GL Bookkeeper to Assistant Branch Manager of 1.56M from Agri/Agra, .59M from Gold & Gems, Margosatubig. Another employee of the branch .79M from Pension Loan, and .5M from other loans. earned the privilege to be transferred to the branch Savings deposit increased by 12.58M, from 41.96M near her residence. to 54.54M where 8.6M are SD Plus and 4.42M are regular savings deposit. The promotion given to the above mentioned employees paved the way for four new staff who Despite the increase in past due (PD) accounts, were hired and regularized during the year – Girlie these accounts are now undergoing foreclosure A. Pepito for Gold & Gems, Marchel Bacus as teller, proceedings. We will also have to do something Roger Maasin as Regular Loans Account Officer, about the unsecured salary loans which registered and Dennis Omania as GL Bookkeeper. -

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GOLD & GEMS PORTFOLIO SHINES BRIGHTER

BY: ANNIE LISA G. ESTRERA

old & Gems ended the year 2008 sparkling that “it’s so big”. But despite what seemed to be brighter as its portfolio increased by 150% an impossible target to reach then, we were able to Gcompared to 2007, reaching 33.3M, and surmount the insurmountable. contributing 4.6M to the total earnings of the bank. Each of the three (3) areas registered significant This achievement can be attributed to the increases in their portfolio with Area 2 and Area 3 teamwork, perseverance, and hard work of each exceeding their targets. and every Gold & Gems team members in the branches. A huge part of the success we would like to give thanks to our Almighty God who made it possible for the Gold & Gems team to end 2008 Gold & Gems Performance remarkably.

20 Moving forward, we have started another battle to surpass our remarkable figures of 2008. This year is a tough year for us as we face the global 15 economic crisis. Yet we remain optimistic, as the Actual 10 author of ‘The Art of War’ said, “if you know the Target enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the Difference 5 result of a hundred battles.” We know that with our continued hard work, team work, competence, 0 and drive to succeed, we will be able to reach our Area 1Area 2Area 3 collective target of 70M loan portfolio, contributing 8M earnings to the bank.

We are fully equipped with the right armor on how I remember the time when we set up our annual to win our battle. The continued trust and support target for 2008; all of the appraisers were hesitant of the management, and our commitment to reach to accept their required quota. In a reluctant our target amidst challenges, we will be able to manner, they said “the target is impossible” and Æ define another record for Gold & Gems. -

GOLD & GEMS APPRAISERS: Area 2: Eden Marie Malagom @ Baroy, Oscar S. Murallon @ Kapatagan, Flordeluna D. Harina @ Maranding, Charity Andrin @ MFO Maranding, Girlie A. Pepito @ GOLDMargosatubig, & GEMS Martine APPRAISERS P. Bacus @ Dumalinao, Daryll Billy Apao @ Pagadian City, Neby Alando @ Bacolod, Cecil Palenzuela @ Aurora

Area 3: Ermira Flor Monterola @ Buug, Sheri Gay Costanilla @ Ipil, John Derick Arang @ Imelda, Ann Uy @ Dipolog City, Nina Galera @ Zamboanga City, Ruby Tapales @ Liloy, Lloyd Bastasa @ Sindangan

Area 1: Lea Angco @ Molave, Leonila Bendong @ Iligan City, Analiza Duong @ Ozamiz City, Johnalyn Nericua @ Oroquieta City, Zharae Chan @ Cagayan de Oro City, Cheryl Retardo @ Malaybalay City, Gleen Isidto @ Dumingag, Geraldine Patao @ Initao, Zandra Filipino @ Sinacaban, Chona Tiu @ Puerto, Maricel Dagoc @ Talakag

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1st VALLEY HANDOG SA KAPWA BANK OUTREACH On 6 February 2009, Friday, right PROGRAMS after banking hours, the Pagadian City Branch headed by its Manager, Joel L. Luna, and some of the staff, travelled an hour from the City to Barangay Tagulo, Tukuran, , where they were met by the local officials in the area, to personally visit and donate goods to forty eight (48) families residing in the area.

The goods distributed to the indigent families include: rice, canned goods, noodles, coffee which were greatly appreciated by them. The outreach program dubbed by the Pagadian City Branch as “HANDOG SA JOEL LUNA AND STAFF DISTRIBUTING BAGS OF KAPWA” is an annual event meant to share the blessings of the Branch GOODS TO THE INDIGENT FAMILIES OF TUKURAN to the indigent residents of the City. - BY: DARYLL BILLY APAO

DAGHANG SALAMAT HAVEN OF HAPPINESS GIKAN SA ATONG KASING­KASING Reaching out to others is an old concept. But indeed, it is a concept that never grows old. The outreach program recently held by the Kapatagan Branch There is an old saying that goes, “no sight could have been sweeter; no music (K2) centers on gift-giving as a more touching than the soft mutter of words.” language of love and friendship, expression of Amused faces showed up when we stood at an empty lot beside a small gratitude, and symbol of piety chapel. There were children running in and out, mothers carrying their infants with them, residents of the place waiting for our next move. On that day, the in the form of charity. It is the small place at Nuñez Extension, Barangay Canelar Presa transformed into a branch’s voluntary way of haven of happiness for its residents. sharing its blessings without requiring anything in return. The Zamboanga City Branch conducted its second annual outreach program that touched the residents’ hearts and made them feel special. We extended Headed by Neri B. Bliss, Branch assistance to poor families in the area. Manager, and Dindo Suico, Nuñez Extension is one of the stumpy areas in the city and home to at least a Assistant Manager, in hundred of marginal families. When you go to the place, you will see that coordination with the local their environment depicts the status of their living. One of our guards has officials in the area, the been living in this kind of environment for many years now and he would Kapatagan Branch staff attest how poverty made their lives an everyday battle for survival. Poverty is donated several bags of goods really about battling for food to eat and water to drink. to about fifty (50) indigent families in Barangay Suso, Realizing their plight, the branch donated bags of basic goods to about fifty (50) families in the area. The list of beneficiaries was prepared by our guard Kapatagan, . who has been living with these people for so long.

The families demonstrated their Naked hands received the goods with joy and gratitude. From an empty lot gratitude through a song that with amused faces, Nuñez Extension became a haven of happiness for people says “Daghang Salamat.”- whose appreciation reached the heavens.

BY: ROSELINE B. CABADOR BY: MIRIAM DE LEON

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PAMASKONG HANDOG GIKAN OZAMIZ BRANCH Ozamiz City Branch At Its Best OZAMIZ CITYBY: ANNABRANCH PEARL BETE AT ITS BEST BY: ANNA PEARL BETE Ozamiz City Branch recently

held its annual outreach Extraordinary Performance. This is how we are going to describe the program known as Pamaskong performance of Ozamiz City under its new manager, Peter M. Alfon. Handog to the selected The branch started the year 2008 with a tough battle and ended barangays in the City. victoriously with the following figures: loans portfolio of 149.76M, savings deposit of 378.81M, assets of 399.25, and income of 2.02M. The Outreach Program was headed by Peter M. Alfon, Known to be workaholic and disciplinarian, our manager drove us to branch manager, assisted by commit to the attainment of our targets. As a result, past due has his staff namely Joel Apale, significantly decreased, and collection monitoring reached a new level. Rolito Pilapil, Gerald Riconalla, Owing to the effectiveness of daily PAR monitoring, several accounts Jessie Gaan, Linfort Zar were updated. Manugas, and Nesteve Yurong.

We are also proud to say that while we remain committed to the The program was conducted in achievement of our goals as a team, we respect and keep one the light of the effects of the another’s individuality. We recognize the value of each member of global crisis to the poor families the team where trust and unity reign. We build our 1ST Valley Bank of the chosen barangays of Ozamiz Branch family on these grounds. Catadman and Villa Consuelo.- Onwards to 2009, we shall continue the gains that we have started.- BY: MAILA CERNOL

HOW IS 1ST VALLEY BANK ZAMBOANGA BRANCH TODAY?

fter one (1) year and six (6) months from its opening last 16 August 2007, Zamboanga Branch is growing stronger amidst the tough peace and order situation in the locality. The branch itself has A experienced several attempts of extortion by the lawless elements in the society. These difficult challenges did not deter the branch to perform its best. In fact, it even made the branch stronger and more courageous in facing its battles. The outcome? Take a look at these figures: asset grew to 112.40M, savings deposit reached 82.48M with 2,458 accounts, loans registered at 110.32M with 2,529 accounts.

Headed by Felizardo A. Enad, the branch is composed of seven (7) regular staff, three (3) probationary staff, and four (4) security guards on duty.

The branch is currently setting its eyes on specific target market that other banks in the locality have not yet dared to reach, such as Gold & Gems and Micro Finance Loans.

We aim to be the one-stop-servicing financial institution in Zamboanga City with our diverse products and services.-

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NEW BRANCHES LILOY BRANCH ON THE RISE IN THE FACE OF GLOBAL CRISIS

n the past few months, we At present, Liloy Branch is busy have seen unthinkable with its new market in the Branch Manager Ithings happening in the Municipality of Labason, a DEMOSTHENES P.SOLIS, global economy that has twenty minute drive from the Assistant Manager ED GLENN started to trickle down to our Branch, where big P. TECSON, GL Bookkeeper own economy. Some of the entrepreneurs are very DORIS C. BETACURA, Teller rural banks in the country have receptive of the products and LOREILEEN S. FERNANDEZ, collapsed. services of the bank particularly Loans Bookkeeper EMMILENE FAME and Seafarer’s loan. L. ELAGO, Account Officers Despite the crisis, Liloy Branch MANNY LOU A. SANCHEZ for managed to earn a respectable Perhaps, what we consider as regular loans, JEFFREY B. figure of 21M in loan portfolio our greatest tool is our drive to TIMAGOS for MFU loans, Gold from the time the branch achieve our goals and targets. & Gems Appraiser RUBY T. opened its services seven We tighten our selling and TAPALES months ago. Guided by the marketing campaigns to fundamentals, we always work capture the largest segment of Security Work Force: KENNETH hard to persuade our customers the market. We see ourselves JOY CANTALEJO, FEDERIC and give them reasons why as the leader in our locality not ALISNA, FREDERICK DELA what we offer is desirable. Æ just today but for a lifetime.- CERNA

AT SINDANGAN, FIRST IMPRESSION LASTS

BY: CHARMA PARANGAN, JESSAH MAE ABELLO & LLOYD BASTASA

indangan Branch is bank obtaining the trust and Branch Manager regarded to be one of the confidence of our now rapidly EDSEL MANLANGIT, Smost beautiful banks in growing clientele. GL Bookkeeper JESSAH MAE the locality. Everyone who has ABELLO, Loans Bookkeeper seen the branch is awed by its Our clients are the most MARIAN APDUA, Teller/Gold & architecture as well as the important for us and therefore Gems Appraiser LLOYD beautiful staff and the we make it a point to BASTASA, Account Officers wonderful service of the strengthen our relationship with WENDEL ESTOCADA, JERRY branch. them. LOMONGO for regular loans, JUBAL YU for MFU Loans, Half a year into our operations, The bank is getting to be Processor CHARMA we can say that we have known for our competitive rates PARANGAN earned profitable gains from and clients keep coming back our efforts and team work. We because of the kind of service Security Work Force: GLENN continue to engage in our that we provide where first ILAGAS, ELIZAR NANTES, massive campaigns for the impression really lasts. Come VINCENT GORNES products and services of the Æ visit us now. -

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NEW EMPLOYEES CAREER OPPORTUNITIES TO 45KAPATAGAN NEW BRANCHEMPLOYEES Diezel E. Suare, Ian M. Paring

midst global crisis that has started to affect KAPATAGAN BRANCH the employment condition in the country, 1st Diezel E. Suare, Ian M. Paring, Rebmevon P. AValley Bank has given career opportunities to Cacafranca 45 new employees who were hired beginning January 2009. LILOY BRANCH Ruby T. Tapales In thrust with the bank’s mission of partnering with the government for countryside development and MARANDING BRANCH improve the lives of the people, the bank provided Ellen Joy A. Onyot several employment opportunities for the people residing in the bank’s areas of operations. MARGOSATUBIG BRANCH Jeffrey Nablo, Kristine B. Macua Several branches and financial solution centers were also opened last quarter of 2008. The bank MOLAVE BRANCH opens its newest branch, Guingoog last week of Madeline Berjame, Mariefel D. Sabanal March this year. OROQUIETA CITY BRANCH Welcome your new lifetime friends: Andre M. Ates

BAROY BRANCH OZAMIZ CITY BRANCH Irene L. Gimena Rosemay R. Riñon, Vicmar Eli C.Gamale, Michael E. Rivera, Kristine Jeremy R. Fermano BUUG BRANCH Geraldine Miculob, Mikel Ronald L. Magdula PAGADIAN CITY BRANCH Myrien Glie A. Tano, Mary Shyn A. Delizo, Rosque GINGOOG BRANCH Fiel Bliss R. Maramara, Jay Arnel N. Aratan, Jonathan S. Gorra, Carmelita C. Amante, Ruth C. Camatura, PROVIDENCE OFFICE Jesie J. Gaan Joan E. Barcelonia

CDO BUSINESS CENTER Joan V. Ilustrado With additional work force, the bank continues to strengthen and customize its services to meet DIPOLOG CITY specific financial needs and requirements of its Ma. Teresa M. Orong, Jenielyn Perocho, clientele.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE, CDO As always, the bank considers its people as its Michael L. Abrogar, Jefred O. Fontanilla, Marevic greatest asset.- S. Poncardas -with reports from JOCYLINE PEPANIA ILIGAN CITY BRANCH Ed Lorenz Sol, , Joan B. Alcober Screening Procedures for applicants are held every day, Monday‐Saturday, at 1st Valley Bank Business IPIL BRANCH Center in CDO, and at 1st Valley Bank Head Office Grapes B. Atay, Edsfre Rico, Glenn T. Urcellada, in Baroy, Lanao Del Norte. Percival Cudal H A G I T P a g e | 11

FEATURED PRODUCT

x SEAMAN’S LOAN – When You Want Peace of Mind x While Away from Home

BY: RAY GICA

ecognizing the importance and The seamen or their designated beneficiaries contributions of the country’s overseas are allowed to loan up to a maximum of Rworkers, 1st Valley Bank has developed 150,000.00 Philippine pesos, with a low a new product exclusive to seamen- the interest rate of 2.5% a month. SEAMAN’S LOAN. A distinct feature of the SEAMAN’S LOAN is The loan product benefits not only qualified its flexible payment scheme where the loan seamen but also their beneficiaries through the applicant can arrange for amortizations based affordable rates and convenience and flexibility on their repayment capacity. The arranged in payment matching the capacity and payment is deducted from the allotment availability of compensation. account or payroll account of the applicant.

The primary purpose of the bank in developing The following are the required documents to the SEAMAN’S LOAN product is to augment be submitted: the financial needs of the seamen and their x Duly accomplished application form families especially while the seamen work hard x Latest 2x2 ID Photos overseas. x Certified photocopy of the seaman’s identification record book The SEAMAN’S LOAN is granted to any x Certified photocopy of the seaman’s seamen or their designated beneficiaries found registration certificate Photocopy of Passport to meet the following eligibility requirements: x x Duplicate copy of the allotment slip x Certified photocopy of employment contract Of legal age, 18 years old and above x and clearances x In certified good health condition x ATM card x With valid contract of employment verified x Photocopy of PRC ID and License and approved by the POEA x Cleared from all accountabilities including Beneficiaries are also required to submit but not limited to charges, cases. Clearance x Proof of remittance (minimum of two from employment, court, and POEA must be consecutive months) submitted. x Marriage Contract/Birth Certificate x No existing past due accounts with the bank whichever is applicable and/or other banks and financial institutions x With a net pay or income sufficient to cover When you want peace of mind while away from the amortization of the loan applied for home, come and avail the SEAMAN’S LOAN at your nearest 1st Valley Bank branch. -

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SPOTLIGHT

To Tighten Credit Management

1VB INSTITUTIONALIZES CREDIT COMMITTEE

n the strategic planning of the bank strengthen their relationship with their conducted earlier this year by Ms. Celeste customers delivering customized financial Marie V. Lim, Vice President of MetroBank solution whenever and wherever necessary. I Card Corporation, an important amendment to The following are the standard procedures of the medium term development plan of the the loan approval: bank was introduced – the institutionalization 1. Branches receive the loan applications in of the Credit Committee to tighten credit the prescribed form ensuring compliance management. with all requirements and The Credit Committee has complete the main responsibility for documentation. the general approval of loans ensuring that these 2. Designated loans have satisfied all the officers of the branches, usually requirements and the Assistant conditions in accordance to Branch Managers, the set policy and accomplish the regulations of the bank. CRM or Credit This means that all loan Recommendation applications have to pass Memorandum and the Credit Committee for submit the same evaluation and approval. Initially, loans under to the Credit Committee. the following programs are not subject to the 3. Credit Committee evaluates and approves process: Microfinance, Gold & Gems, and submitted applications for loans. Supervised Credit. 4. Branches release the approved loans to the It is seen that with the institutionalization of clients. the Credit Committee, it is not only the The Credit Committee is chaired by: Nicolette tightening of credit management that will be Lim-Gica, Vice President for Operations, Anavic effectively resolved but the amendment shall A. Sarsale, Vice President/Controller, and Anne also improved the over-all effectiveness and Estrera, Assistant Vice President. Members are efficiency of branch operations. Branches can Dennis George Feliciano for Area 1, Michael now delegate more time to promote the Abrogar for Area 2, and Marevic Poncardas for products and services of the bank as well as Æ Area 3. -

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BY: JAMAEL DANGNAN

Talakag Financial Solution Center is capturing the microfinance market share in the locality. Customers are attracted to the low interest and built-in savings deposit scheme of our microfinance products. However, in the first quarters of our operations, we were also confronted with delinquencies,

PAR! specifically portfolio-at-risk or PAR.

Facing the challenges, the Talakag team started to discuss how to go about with our PAR-fighting. We identified the factors that caused our delinquencies, and then we implemented our strategies to combat PAR based from the best practices of the bank and strictly adhering to the standards set forth by the MABS.

Our efforts paid well as the Talakag team was able to significantly reduce our PAR while earning a remarkable increase in loan portfolio of almost Php1M with 99 accounts. COMBATS

The reduction of our PAR doesn’t mean that we can remain complacent. As a matter of fact, it serves as our motivating factor to be relentless in our pursuit to further reduce PAR at its acceptable level or even TALAKAG

better.

Now, we continue to intensify our collection and monitoring strategies. As our Branch

HOW Manager Benedict Mutia constantly reminds us, our team should stay in focus and work together cooperatively to achieve success. -

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TOUR OF DUTY IPIL BRANCH CONQUERS HEIGHTS AREA 3 CONDUCTS BY: CHARY T. LEONARDO MICROFINANCE ACCOUNT OFFICERS FORUM

BY: NOEL TABANIAG

With our strong belief that constant education and training is an integral component of success, the microfinance account officers of area 3 gathered in a forum to discuss the annual plan and strategies that the area will implement on microfinance.

The forum tackled the 2009 budget per branch as well as how to improve and ensure IPIL BRANCH MIGHTY WARRIORS WHILE ON PARADE standardization of the process flow from marketing to renewal Ipil Branch has conquered heights! Seventeen mighty warriors of loans. from Ipil Branch, dressed in their Friday uniforms, joined the annual parade in celebration of the Araw ng . The area 3 manager, Glenn A. Mendez, specifically discussed Bringing with them their pride as 1st Valley Bankers, the mighty the importance and value of warriors treaded the five-kilometer journey to the Provincial Capitol honesty. He further challenged where the parade culminated. each participant to be vigilant and diligent in their duties and The celebration saw the convergence of the government, private responsibilities to contribute to institutions, individuals from all walks of life, as well as financial the growth of the area’s institutions that include 1st Valley Bank, LandBank, BDO, Allied microfinance portfolio. The Bank, DBP, PNB, ONB, RBDI, RBK, and RCBC among many others. area manager stressed that at the end of the day, their hard During the short program at the Capitol, the mighty warriors of Ipil work will earn for them fruitful Branch headed by their manager, Anderson C. Undag, let out a returns. mighty roar of “LAMBO PA SIBUGAY! LAMBO PA 1ST VALLEY BANK The forum was facilitated by IPIL BRANCH!” - Chanel Carbaquiel and Siaron Siaton, both area supervisors HAGIT welcomes comments, suggestions, reactions, or and attended by Glenn contributions in manuscript; you may email us at Bagaloyos, Fiel Enad, and Ervie [email protected] Cane- all microfinance experts.- H A G I T P a g e | 15

SUPERVISED CREDIT farmersWHAT to increase YOU their SHOULD rice harvests. KNOW In ABOUTfact, the bank product SUPERVISED CREDITempl LOAN

SUPERVISED CREDIT LOAN is a product of 1st Valley Bank that is recently introduced to the people of Zamboanga Sibugay and .

This loan product is the bank’s contribution to alleviate the effects of the global crisis in the areas where the product is offered.

1st Valley Bank understands the farmers to increase their rice harvests. In fact, the bank hires plight of the farmers who are production and earn profitably. the services of agriculturists the main beneficiaries of the specializing in rice production Supervised Credit Loan. Owing Availing the supervised credit specifically for this purpose. to the high cost of rice loan will certainly yield more production, majority of the gains than borrowing funds for 1st Valley Bank is doing farmers cannot keep up with capital from traders who charge everything to help the farmers their production making them higher interest rate. Unlike the enjoy bountiful and profitable earn way below their daily compulsory agreement with the harvest in their lifetime. - needs. As they say, “Ako ray traders where the farmers are naluoy…” obliged to sell their harvest in a price controlled by the traders Supervised Credit Loan Team Pioneering the implementation and where the farmers cannot of BUUG Branch of the loan product in the area demand, supervised credit loan Area Manager is Buug Branch offering it to the empowers the farmers to GLENN A. MENDEZ locality as well as three other choose where to sell their Branch Manager municipalities in the area – harvest in which they have full GLENN BAGALOYOS Bayog, Kumalarang, and control of the price. This Area Micro Supervisor Diplahan. enables the farmers to get the CHANEL CARBAQUIL most from their harvests. Senior Account Officer Farmers in the area are entitled BENFER LAURE to avail of the loan product that Aside from financial support Account Officer provides all the finances that the supervise loan product JONIEL GALO needed for their rice st gives to the farmers, 1 Valley Area Agriculturist production. The bank only Bank Buug Branch also provides GERALDINE MICULOB charges an interest rate of technical assistance to the about 1.6% a month or 20% farmers to help them how to BY: JBM JAKER & per annum that enables the grow and improve their GERALDINE MICULOB

H A G I T P a g e | 16

PERSONNEL GET TO KNOW BUBBLE BHONG MATTERS BY: NOREEN M. LIM

“Who’s that handsome gentleman from loans processing?” a blushing customer shyly expressed while waiting for her number to be called at the customer’s lounge at Maranding Branch, seven months ago.

That handsome gentleman the customer is referring to is none other than the branch’s loan processor, RODERICK T. VILDOSOLA, fondly called BHONG.

“I am just glad 1st Valley Bank accepted me knowing how high your standards are.”

Bhong hails from Poblacion, Balabagan, Lanao del “In my job as a loan processor, I encounter Sur. He is a Christian but speaks and understands different people with different personalities. Although sometimes it is stressful to deal with Maranao well. He is a double degree holder having graduated from both BS Electronics and difficult people, I still find my work fulfilling and Communication Engineering Technology at MSU-IIT exciting. Attitude matters. If you love your job, stress is immaterial or you will know how to handle and BSBA Entrepreneurial Marketing at MSU- Marawi. His experience as an instructor and your stress.” Bhong concluded the conversation by accounting staff prior to becoming part of the 1st saying, “I am happy to be here. I have found not just my work but I have found good officemates, Valley Bank family has enabled Bhong to easily st perform his duties and responsibilities. Aside from true friends. I have found a family in 1 Valley exercising due diligence, Bhong is known to be a Bank.” hard worker and in less than the usual time, he is “Attitude matters. If you love your job, now the senior loans processor of the branch. stress is immaterial or you will know how During one of the casual conversations with this to handle your stress.” writer, Bhong fondly expressed how grateful and happy he is to be part of the 1st Valley Bank family. “I am just glad that 1st Valley Bank accepted me At the staff house where Bhong stays, he is knowing how high your standards are.” considered as an all-in-one stand-in comedian of Punch Line, Laugh Line, and Metro Comedy Bar. When asked what makes him happy, Bhong With his comical antiques, he can easily satisfy teasingly said, “For months that I have been thirst and hunger while waiting for meals to be working with Maranding Branch, I have always served. He can offer soothing music as he been looking forward to each day of work with perfectly sings well. He can give the best medicine much fervor and excitement. Every single day is a as he can make you laugh endlessly. That’s Bhong, challenge like the challenges of reality game shows alive and vibrant, earning for him the moniker Survivor and Fear Factor.” Æ BUBBLE BHONG! -

H A G I T P a g e | 17

GOAL SETTING DIPOLOG BRANCH TARGETS 10M BY YEAR END

BY: BOBBIE C. PAYE areas expanding to neighboring For Gold & Gems, the branch municipalities of Dipolog City. sets 3M as its target for the ipolog City Branch is year. The branch shall further set to reach 10M of The branch also plans to join strengthen its fast turnaround D microfinance loan the Dipolog Chamber of time that customers get their portfolio on or before the year Commerce to expand its cash instantaneously. ends. This is a 7.2M increase in connections to small and the previous year’s microloan medium enterprises in the City. Acknowledging the lapses in portfolio. Aside from the foreseen the bookkeeping system, increase in MFU portfolio, the everyone in the branch gave Although the figure is seen as membership shall also be the assurance to do their part gigantic, everyone accepted the favorable to the branch’s other in straightening up the system. challenge as they commit to loan products and savings work harder to realize the deposit. Being a member of Although challenges are target. the Dipolog Chamber of difficult, Dipolog branch is set Commerce shall entitle the to reach its targets, resolve its The branch’s microfinance branch to showcase its bookkeeping issues, and account officers are set to products and services to the overcome difficulties through capture unexplored market Æ chamber. Æ determination and hard work.-

LOW COST DEPOSIT, HIGH YIELDING LOANS FOR MANUKAN FINANCIAL SOLUTION CENTER BY: JOHN PAUL B. HAYO

Increasing the market share through the promotion of low cost savings deposits and higher yielding loan products is the route that Manukan Financial Solution (FS) Center shall take this year to reach its targets.

Manukan FS has already started to market its low cost savings deposits to various business establishments in the locality where the FS offered them a pick-up deposit scheme. The FS is continuously visiting the schools where the value of saving and how the WAIS BOX of 1st Valley Bank can help them save are being presented to both elementary and high school students.

Simultaneously, Manukan FS reaches out to barangays, attending sessions, and explores the areas to promote high yield loan products of the bank such as Gold & Gems, Seaman’s Loan, Agri/Agra, and Microfinance.

Making it a point to know the market, Manukan FS will continue to deliver products and services that will provide timely and relevant solutions to the residents of the locality. -

HAGITH A G I T PPage a g e | | 18 18 Performance Counts

BY: ANAVIC A. SARSALE

TOP FIVE OF TWENTY BRANCHES

HAGITH A G I T PPage a g e | | 19 19 Client Testimonials

“Dako kaayo ug gikatabang “Basta modoul ka lang, dili jud “Mas gusto nako dinhi sa inyong bangko, 1st Valley Bank ang 1st Valley Bank kanamo, ka magmahay” Pagadian City, kay hiyang ko nakapahuman ko sa akong anak. - ANNAZER C. AHITO dinhi. Kamo akong dali Sayon pud sila duolon. Mao maduolan kung naa ko kini ang kasulbaran sa among panginahanglanon.” “My family used to rent a house mga problema. Thank you so but now, through the low -MMARTHA M. MIRAFUENTES, much and more power. God interest loan at 1st Valley Bank, GSIS Pensioner Bless.” we are able to build our own house and live there -LETICIA DOLERO comfortably since then.” “Dako kaayo og natabang ang 1st

Valley Bank Pagadian labi na sa - JOY C. CODASTE pag-eskwela sa akong “There are no dull moments in anak. Ako nalang this bank because the manager, ngbuhi sa akong Ma’am Ruby Mendez, really pamilya kay wala nako find ways and means so that bana.” we will not go home zero or with nothing to bring to -OGKE TATOK DEPED Employee- augment our needs. This bank Muslim is a blessing to us. Thank you so much and more power.”

‐ FENIETA T. GARCIA “We appreciate the services

rendered by the personnel of “1st Valley Bank is always st st 1 Valley Bank‐Oroquieta City. 1 Valley Bank, formerly available anytime we seek When we visit their office, we Kapatagan Valley Bank, is my their help.” are entertained right away.” only trusted bank because of the way they treat their -DANETTE C. MOLEJON ‐MIGUELA A. MAGHINAY customers with a smile. That’s not all, 1st Valley Bank is the I’m very much thankful to “We are very satisfied with the only bank who has the trust and Molave Branch. Ang manager st confidence of all the teachers in services rendered to us by 1 maghanap ng paraan kung paano Valley Bank Oroquieta Zamboanga Del Sur division, ako makadala ng pera. She is very most especially the teachers of particularly when we are approachable, kind, and friendly. applying for loan. It only Midsalip District because of the st I hope na hindi magsawa ang 1 takes us a day to receive the bank’s incomparable service to Valley Bank sa pagtulong sa aking st proceeds, unlike other us. So thank you very much 1 pangangailangan sa pera. Maraming lending institutions where we Valley Bank for helping us. salamat po. have to wait for a week” -EFREN P. LOPEZ -MARITES B. TINAPAY - CIRILA P. MEJARO

1st Valley Bank, Your Lifetime Friend

HAGITH A G I T PPage a g e | | 20 20

TheThe PresidentPresident SpeaksSpeaks LOVE OUR JOBS

“Our personal success is dependent on the company, and the company is also dependent on how well we do our jobs.”

During the annual strategic planning of the bank right now. It where we have reviewed in detail where we are is but fi tting in our medium term development plan, there that we do came up lessons to be learned. everything to exceed First, there are some changes that the bank their expec- needs to implement in these diffi cult times of tations. global crisis. These changes may not be easily acceptable to everyone but empowers the bank As the bank to stay in control and emerge stronger than what has always we are today. been gener- ous to us all, Second, each of us has to take our own defi nitive it wouldn’t responsibilities and be willing to accept full ac- hurt anyone countability of our own actions. Time and again, of us to give I have always emphasized that the bank is not back by doing just about a single individual calling the shots. our respective jobs The bank has been and will always be a collab- with due diligence. orative effort of the best minds and the purest hearts with a common goal, that is to give noth- We have so much ing but the best service to our customers. reason to be thank- ful that despite the Third, our lives are practically tied to one anoth- global crisis and the er. Our personal success is dependent on the rising unemployment, company, and the company is also dependent on we are keeping our how well we do our jobs. That said; we need to jobs. The least that we constantly keep ourselves relevant. This means can do is to love our that we should never stop learning and applying jobs. what we have learned into our respective jobs for the greater benefi t of the customers who If we love our jobs, we serve. After all, we certainly agree that our our jobs will love customers are the reason we are where we are us back. ☺