Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) is one of the leading corporate philanthropic organizations in the Philippines, established in 1979 as the social responsibility arm of the Metrobank Group. Focused on nation-building, MBFI engages in various programs that span education, arts, health, and disaster response, among others. A key aspect of its work is the provision of cash assistance and relief efforts to Filipinos, particularly those affected by natural calamities.
Through strategic partnerships and targeted initiatives, MBFI helps uplift underprivileged communities by addressing urgent needs and fostering long-term development. By combining its philanthropic efforts with a commitment to excellence, MBFI continues to be a vital force in empowering Filipinos and driving social progress in the Philippines.
What is MBFI?
Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI) is the corporate social responsibility arm of the Metrobank Group, established in 1979 by Dr. George Ty Siao Kian. As one of the Philippines’ most prominent philanthropic organizations, MBFI focuses on advancing social development through initiatives in education, visual arts, health, and the recognition of outstanding Filipino professionals. The foundation is committed to nation-building by fostering a culture of excellence and partnering with organizations that serve underprivileged and marginalized communities.
Through its various programs, MBFI recognizes and empowers individuals who excel in their fields, from scholars and artists to teachers, soldiers, and police officers. Additionally, the foundation actively responds to natural disasters, providing critical relief and rehabilitation efforts across the Philippines and Asia. With a mission to “Excel. Engage. Empower,” MBFI continually strives to uplift communities and inspire positive change throughout the nation.
History
The MBFI was established in 1979 by Dr. George Ty Siao Kian, following the founding of Metrobank. As the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of the Metrobank Group, MBFI focuses on programs in education, visual arts, health, and recognizing excellence in various professions. Over the years, it has become one of the Philippines’ leading corporate philanthropic organizations, partnering with others to support marginalized communities and respond to natural disasters. MBFI’s flagship programs include the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos and the Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE), among others. Through these initiatives, the foundation aims to inspire excellence, foster community engagement, and empower individuals for nation-building.
Logo
The MBFI logo is a stylized pentagon, reflecting the emblem of its parent company, Metrobank. At its center is a red heart, symbolizing the foundation’s commitment to corporate citizenship and social responsibility. The primary color of the logo is blue, representing nobility of spirit, while the gradient arcs above the heart suggest upward movement, emphasizing MBFI’s dedication to fostering excellence and contributing to nation-building. The logo encapsulates the foundation’s mission to excel, engage, and empower communities and individuals in their pursuit of social development.
Mission
“As the heart of the Metrobank Group, we live up to our “Excel. Engage. Empower” roadmap that embodies who we are and what we do.
The Foundation shall endeavor to be the country’s premier corporate philanthropic foundation contributing a significant impact on social development. As a development organization, we aim to uplift individuals and the sectors they represent and strategically link with institutions for a shared-purpose. By creating and propagating a culture of excellence and providing solutions to stakeholder’s needs, we continuously expand our scope of reach and be at the forefront in serving communities. “Excel. Engage. Empower” or the 3Es shall remain our roadmap.”
Vision
“To be the country’s premier corporate philanthropic foundation contributing a significant impact on social development.”
Core Values
MBFI is guided by a set of core values that reflect its commitment to excellence and social responsibility:
- Commitment to Excellence: Upholding ethical principles and surpassing industry standards in all actions and decisions.
- Good Governance: Adhering to laws and regulations with integrity, accountability, transparency, professionalism, and fairness.
- Equal Opportunities and Sustainable Partnerships: Creating equal growth opportunities through partnerships that foster organizational synergy.
- Love of God: Demonstrating deep faith and devotion to God in accordance with Matthew 22:37.
- Love of Country: Prioritizing the well-being of Filipinos, aiming for an empowered and prosperous citizenry.
- Value for Our People: Treating staff with fairness, investing in their development, and helping them achieve their full potential.
- Teamwork: Collaboratively working towards shared goals through collective effort.
Mandate
The Metrobank Foundation is dedicated to becoming the leading corporate philanthropic foundation in the Philippines. Having said that, its mandate is focused on community engagement and empowerment through various corporate social responsibility initiatives. Through its programs, MBFI also strives to uplift individuals and communities, embodying its motto: “Excel. Engage. Empower.”
Organizational Structure
The organizational structure depicted in the chart shows the hierarchical framework for MBFI, with the following key elements:
1. Board of Directors
- The top-level governing body overseeing the entire organization.
- Has functional and administrative authority over the whole institution.
2. Office of the President
- Reports directly to the Board of Directors.
- Manages day-to-day operations and oversees all major divisions and units.
- Has administrative responsibilities over specific groups and divisions.
3. Business Units
- These units report directly to the Office of the President.
- Likely responsible for the core business operations and implementation of the organization’s projects and programs.
4. Specialized Groups and Divisions
- Trust Banking Group
- Risk Management Group
- Internal Audit Group
- Compliance Division
- Anti-Money Laundering Division
These groups have a dotted administrative line to the Office of the President, indicating they report to respective Board committees but are managed administratively by the Office of the President.
The structure shows a clear division of responsibilities with the Board of Directors at the top, delegating day-to-day operations to the Office of the President. Specialized groups focus on key operational areas, ensuring compliance, risk management, and effective financial management, while the core business units directly implement the organization’s objectives.
Benefit
The establishment of Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) has greatly advanced social development and empowered communities throughout the Philippines. By concentrating on key areas such as education, arts, disaster response, and health, MBFI plays a pivotal role in national development and enhancing the lives of Filipinos.
- Advancement in Education: MBFI’s scholarship and grant programs make quality education accessible to underprivileged students, significantly improving their future prospects.
- Promotion of Cultural Heritage: Through initiatives like the Metrobank Arts and Design Excellence (MADE), MBFI promotes cultural heritage, nurtures local talent, and supports the arts community.
- Effective Disaster Response: MBFI provides critical relief and sustained recovery support to communities impacted by natural disasters, helping them rebuild and recover.
- Health and Nutrition Support: MBFI’s health programs target malnutrition and wellness, particularly in vulnerable groups, contributing to overall public health improvement.
- Economic Empowerment: By funding livelihood projects and supporting small enterprises, MBFI creates job opportunities and boosts local economies.
- Encouragement of Volunteerism: MBFI fosters a culture of service and social responsibility by encouraging Metrobank employees to participate in community engagement activities.
Overall, MBFI’s initiatives not only address immediate needs but also contribute to the long-term sustainable development and well-being of Filipino society.
Coverage
The Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) is dedicated to uplifting communities across the Philippines through its various corporate social responsibility programs. With a focus on excellence recognition, visual arts, education, disaster response, and grant-giving, MBFI aims to empower individuals and organizations towards nation-building. The foundation’s initiatives have also benefited a wide range of stakeholders, including the following:
- Students: MBFI provides scholarships and educational grants to underprivileged but academically deserving students, helping them access quality education.
- Teachers: The foundation recognizes exemplary teachers through awards like The Outstanding Filipino Teachers and conducts training programs like EDGE Teacher Training to enhance their skills.
- Artists: Through the Metrobank Arts and Design Excellence (MADE) program, MBFI supports young Filipino artists, promotes Philippine art and culture, and preserves the MADE art collection as part of the country’s cultural heritage.
- Soldiers and Police Officers: MBFI honors outstanding soldiers and police officers through the Country’s Outstanding Policemen in Service (COPS) and The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) awards, recognizing their exemplary service and positive impact on society.
- Disaster-affected Communities: In times of natural calamities, MBFI provides immediate relief assistance and long-term support to help affected communities rebuild their homes and livelihoods.
- Underprivileged Families: The foundation’s programs, such as Bags of Blessing and feeding initiatives, directly benefit impoverished families by providing food, shelter, and livelihood support.
By supporting these diverse beneficiaries, MBFI contributes to the holistic development of Filipino society.
Programs and Services
The MBFI is committed to fostering excellence and contributing to nation-building through a range of programs in art, education, health, and social development. Below is a summary of its key initiatives:
1. Art & Design
- Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE): Since 1984, MADE has recognized and supported young Filipino artists through competitions in painting, sculpture, architecture, and interior design, promoting the Philippine art culture and education.
2. Education
- Metrobank-MTAP DepEd Math Challenge (MMC): An annual competition for elementary and high school students aimed at enhancing mathematical skills nationwide.
- Metrobank Scholarship Programs (MSP): Offers scholarships at various educational levels, including programs like ACCESS, GRACE, and YES, aimed at academically gifted but financially challenged students.
- National Teachers’ Month (NTM): A national campaign to honor Filipino teachers and their contributions, culminating on October 5 each year.
3. Grants
MBFI partners with organizations to support initiatives in health, education, arts, and livelihood, aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
4. Outstanding Filipinos
A prestigious award recognizing exemplary teachers, soldiers, and police officers for their outstanding contributions and positive impact on their communities.
5. GT Foundation
The GT Foundation supports education, health, and environment programs, continuing the philanthropic legacy of Metrobank Group’s founder, Dr. George S.K. Ty. It was established by the Ty family to continue their legacy of philanthropy, focusing on improving the quality of life for underprivileged Filipinos. The foundation prioritizes initiatives in health, education, and the environment.
- Bags of Blessing: A nationwide gift-giving program held every Chinese New Year, distributing food packs to 10,000 underprivileged families.
- Health Initiatives
- GT-REACH: Partners with hospitals for surgical missions (e.g., cleft palate, cataract).
- Salamin sa Maliwanag na Bukas: Provides eyeglasses to public school children and indigent adults.
- HEALS: Facilitates PhilHealth enrollment for tricycle drivers and low-income families; constructs health stations in disaster-affected areas.
- Education Programs
- Scholarships for Technical-Vocational Education Program (STEP): Supports marginalized students in gaining skills for employment.
- College-Level Scholarships: Partners with universities to support high-potential students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
- Legacy Projects: Funding and construction of significant educational and religious infrastructure, including buildings at Ateneo de Manila, De La Salle University, University of Santo Tomas, and restoration of heritage churches like Manila Cathedral.
- Grants: Provides grants for education, health, and environment-related initiatives, including scholarships, construction of classrooms, and equipping of facilities in underserved areas.
Video: A Heart That Serves
Watch this video and learn more about how MBFI puts importance to service and in making meaningful contributions to a better country, a better nation.
Summary
The MBFI exemplifies corporate social responsibility through its diverse and impactful programs in education, arts, health, and disaster response. By continuously addressing immediate needs and fostering long-term development, the MBFI remains a pillar of support in advancing social progress and empowering communities across the Philippines.
Contact Information
Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI)
Main Office Address: 2nd Floor, GT Tower International, 6813 Ayala Avenue corner H.V. Dela Costa Street, Makati, Philippines
Contact Number: (02) 8 857-9351, (02) 8 818-5656, (02) 8 750-0837
Email Address: information@mbfoundation.org.ph
Official Website: https://www.mbfoundation.org.ph/
Official Social Media Pages
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/MetrobankFoundation/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3sc5mnubKQtfzVACw4k6pg?view_as=subscriber