Metrobank to install more cash machines in branches

MANILA, Philippines - Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) will install a cash-accepting machine (CAM) in all its branches in the next two to three years.

CAM is an automated teller machine (ATM) that accepts cash, as against the more common cash-dispensing machine (CDM) for withdrawals.

Presently, Metrobank operates 675 branches and 1,477 ATMs. Half of these are located in the branches and the other half in heavy foot traffic areas like malls.

The universal bank has a depositor-to-ATM ratio of 1:2,500, or one ATM for every 2,500 customers.

Metrobank retail banking head Mark B. Perez said by the end of 2014, a total of 100 CAMs will be switched on.

Each CAM can accept a minimum of 200 pieces per transaction.

Perez added that it is a card-less transaction, meaning the ATM-CAM machine would accept cash without the use of an ATM card, assuming that there is a definite recipient (such as bank account number) of the cash transfer.

He said that it is all about the convenience Metrobank can offer its over four million depositors.

“Its all about the customer, what fits their needs and wants.”

Aside from developing, upgrading and expanding its ATM network, Metrobank is set to unravel more features of its mobile and Internet banking products.

Practically, all the ATM units are now EMV-compliant ahead of the deadlines set by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). EMV-compliant debit (including ATM cards) and credit cards have a computer chip, which increases security features.