The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
In a move that advances inclusive education and social responsibility, LANDBANK and the University of the Philippines (UP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on August 1, 2025, to roll out employee-funded scholarships, faculty development grants, and digital banking services across UP campuses.
At the heart of the partnership is LANDBANK’s support for UP’s LINGAP-ISKOLAR Program, which will provide scholarships to students from geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), along with professorial chair and faculty grants.
What makes this initiative stand out is that it is fully funded by voluntary donations from LANDBANK’s more than 12,000 employees—underscoring the Bank’s commitment to nation-building through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) program.
“We are proud to walk alongside UP in shaping the next generation of leaders, changemakers, and nation-builders,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz. “Whether by funding education or supporting faculty development, we are committed to expanding access to quality education and financial services — especially in underserved communities.”
The ceremonial signing at Quezon Hall in UP Diliman was led by UP President Angelo A. Jimenez and LANDBANK Executive Vice President Leila C. Martin, joined by top officials from both institutions.
The collaboration also marks the launch of LANDBANK’s *Cash-Lite Campus* initiative in UP, enabling students, faculty, vendors, and even public transport providers to enjoy cashless transactions.
Through the LANDBANK Mobile Banking App, the UP community can now access services such as online account opening, QR payments, and e-commerce features assuring faster, safer, and more convenient daily transactions.
This initiative aligns with the Bank’s CSR pillars under the S.E.R.V.E. framework: Sustainability, Environment, Resilience, Volunteerism, and Education.
As part of its support for student access and opportunity, LANDBANK promoted the UP College Admission Test (UPCAT) through its branches and digital platforms, while also offering free transportation for test-takers from provincial areas during the August 2–3 examination days.
Beyond scholarships and campus banking, LANDBANK is also investing in the future workforce by offering internships and employment opportunities for UP graduates across its offices, subsidiaries, and foundation.
UP, for its part, will identify beneficiaries for scholarships and grants, and help facilitate LANDBANK’s financial education campaigns across the university.
This multifaceted partnership is a shared pledge to empower Filipino students, support educators, and make education and banking more inclusive and accessible—one campus at a time.