MANILA, Philippines - Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) has strengthened its presence in Mindanao with the opening of five new branches by end-2013. The new branches will add up to Metrobank’s consolidated network of over 830 branches and 1,900 ATMs nationwide. With these new branches, Metrobank will be able to better support Mindanao’s economic progress and give the Davao and Surigao banking public full access to the financial services they need. This is pursuant to the bank’s long-standing goal of bringing its products and services closer to its clients. The new branches are located in Surigao Gaisano Mall in Surigao City; Tandag in Surigao del Sur and Apokon; Tagum in Davao del Norte; Bangoy Chinatown; and Davao Gaisano Mall branches. Metrobank also operates 34 foreign branches, subsidiaries and representative offices.