Philippine National Bank (PSE: PNB) was honored by Asiamoney with Best Bank for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the Philippines during its annual Asiamoney Banking Awards.

PNB President and CEO Wick Veloso said, “We are delighted that PNB’s efforts and CSR initiatives are recognized. This confirms our commitment toward building a strong relationship with the community. We believe in empowering our workforce and building up their skills. This is a major component of our Sustainability agenda.”

The award is a milestone for PNB as this is the first international recognition for its CSR efforts. Among Philippine banks, PNB was recognized as the bank with a clear track record in demonstrating CSR credentials, while focusing on initiatives, achievements, and milestones.

Veloso said that that PNB recognizes that CSR needs to start from within especially during these difficult times. “We will not be effective in helping our external communities if we are not able to take care of our own people,” he said.

Veloso said: “At PNB, we try our best to cultivate an inclusive and collaborative work culture, as we provide equal access to relevant opportunities among all Philnabankers to develop their skills and capabilities, regardless of gender and background. We believe that the more we are able to help educate and encourage our colleagues to do their part, no matter how small, we will be helping the community.”

In addition, PNB was recognized as a Leader for Women by Asiamoney in its Women In Finance supplement. Among 60 banks in Asia, PNB was one of the banks with the highest percentage of women in the overall workforce. The Leader for Women report will highlight financial institutions that have championed the advancement of women in finance across Asia and encompassed gender diversity in the region at global and domestic banks.

Asiamoney is a division of global media group Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC which principally accredits local Asian banks. They identify the best of the best in all markets across a range of core banking services.