Chronological Analysis of Bank Branch Operating Environment Factors: The Case of the Ortigas Central Business District, Metro Manila, Philippines

  • Ronnie H. Encarnacion University of the Philippines School of Urban and Regional Planning
  • Dina C. Magnaye University of the Philippines School of Urban and Regional Planning
  • Patricia Anne S. Delmendo University of the Philippines Research Institute

Abstract

The global effort to ensure financial products and services are accessible to populations in unserved and underserved regions has posed inherent difficulties for banks and financial institutions. This challenge arises from inadequate information about suitable locations for establishing physical branch office operations that are both viable and sustainable. Focusing on the Ortigas commercial business district (CBD) in Metro Manila, Philippines, as the case study area, the key operating environment factors, particularly the presence of anchor institutions, land use commercial potential, and fully developed road network, were identified through the key informant interviews. A chronological analysis spanning different periods was conducted to examine and confirm the influence of the mentioned factors on the entry, expansion, and concentration of bank branches in the CBD. Additionally, the study explored the contribution of central bank policies, specifically liberalization measures, to location-specific restrictions regarding branch expansion in key cities within Metro Manila. The findings highlight the significance of these location-decision factors and policy interventions in informing the planning of financial districts at the local government unit level, irrespective of their financial inclusion status. Furthermore, the research elucidates the interconnections between these operating environment factors and their role in shaping the urban form of the CBD. The influx of anchor institutions or customers, driven by these factors, serves as primary sources of branch deposits, underscoring the importance of strategic planning and policy framework development in promoting financial inclusion and urban development.

Published
2024-08-02