BDO installing more QR-enabled ATMs

MANILA, Philippines — BDO Unibank Inc. will install more QR (quick response)-enabled ATMs nationwide to allow more convenient transactions for clients and at the same time limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Tovi Mendoza, senior vice president and head of ATM network and applied payment solutions at BDO, said withdrawing using QR codes is now available with 100 QR-enabled ATMs in Makati City.

“Now, our clients will enjoy faster and more convenient transactions, and most importantly, limit the risk of catching COVID-19 since they will touch the ATM surface a lot less,” Mendoza said.

BDO has one of the largest distribution networks, with more than 1,400 operating branches and over 4,400 ATMs nationwide. It also has full-service branches in Hong Kong and Singapore as well as 13 overseas remittance and representative offices in Asia, Europe, North America and the Middle East.

The country’s largest lender, owned by the family of the late retail and banking magnate Henry Sy,will put in place more upgraded ATM machines nationwide this year.

The new service, Mendoza added, would benefit those who are encouraged to stay home for their health and safety.

“Despite our security controls, however, we remind our clients to entrust their withdrawal QR codes with others prudently,” he said.

To generate a QR code, clients need to log in to their BDO digital banking app. Click on “More” from the options. Select “Withdraw” then “Via QR.” Pick the account, input the amount, and save the QR Code.

Each QR code is unique to each withdrawal transaction and is valid for only 24 hours upon generation to protect the account.

BDO clarifies though that a withdrawal QR code is different from the account QR code used to send money.

To withdraw, tap “QR Code Transaction” on the ATM screen, allow the machine to scan the QR code, then wait for the machine to dispense cash.