Expressnet finally linked up with Bancnet.

It's official! Bancnet and Expressnet are now fully and functionally interconnected.  Over 10.5 million cardholders have more than 2,500 additional ATMs for their use. You only need one card to get cash 24 X 7.

The morning affair held on June 20, 2007 at the Meeting Room of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) marked the formal launch of phase one of the two ATM networks' interconnection. Hosted by Mr. Cito Beltran, the program started with the national anthem and a brief prayer.  The chairs of Bancnet and Expressnet, Mr. Angelito M. Villanueva, and BPI President, Mr. Aurelio R. Montinola III, respectively, shared their views on the milestone.

Mr. Villanueva welcomed the alliance wholeheartedly, asserting that "the effort is consistent with Bancnet's advocacy for a shared network infrastructure built around the principle of resource sharing and economies of scale." He shared that the inter-network connection "will allow the millions of ATM cardholders in the country access to over 6,000 ATMs nationwide," which will "provide heightened convenience across all cardholders of the three networks."

Mr. Montinola also expressed his positive response on the interconnection, stating that it is "an opportune response to the growing business of ATM Banking."  He stressed that the partnership of Bancnet and Expressnet encourages the use of innovative alternative channels," and as such, is "leading the country towards more technologically-savvy banking methods."  He further affirms that "this convergence upholds both networks' commitment to excellence and quality," and, quoting the two consortiums' catchphrases, "go beyond ATM Banking and create an even more powerful connection."

Attendees witnessed the inter-network connection on actual ATMs, as demonstrated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando Tetangco, Jr. and BSP Deputy Governor Nestor Espenilla, Jr., with special commemorative ATM cards provided by the two major ATM networks.  The guests were also invited to try out their cards on the ATMs and experience for themselves the Bancnet-Expressnet interconnection.

Watch out for the second phase of the Bancnet-Expressnet interconnection.  More services will be available to the Expressnet cardholders.

Bank depositors can now access their accounts and perform various services at over 6,000 automated teller machines  nationwide.  With only one ATM card, a consumer continues to experience the ultimate convenience and enjoys the benefit of a seamless world of 24-hour banking anywhere!

Indeed, the event to complete the three-way interconnection marks another milestone in the history of ATM banking!