Fact Check: Is BDO open today?

Is BDO Open Today?

The claim in question pertains to the operational status of BDO Unibank, the largest bank in the Philippines, specifically regarding whether its branches are open on a given day. This inquiry is particularly relevant during holiday periods when banking hours may differ from regular schedules.

What We Know

BDO Unibank has announced specific operating hours for its branches around the upcoming holidays, particularly in relation to the Barangay Elections on October 30, 2023, and the observance of All Saints' Day on November 1, 2023. According to multiple sources:

On October 30, 2023, mall branches will operate from 1 PM until regular closing hours, while non-mall branches will be closed 2 4 5.
On October 31, 2023, all branches are expected to operate during their regular banking hours 5 7.
On November 1, 2023, all branches will be closed in observance of All Saints' Day 4 6.
On November 2, 2023, non-mall branches will be open until 3 PM, and mall branches until 4 PM 3 7.

Additionally, BDO's digital banking services, including online banking and ATMs, will remain available throughout these dates, providing customers with alternative access to their banking needs 4 5.

Analysis

The information regarding BDO's operating hours comes from several sources, each providing similar details about the bank's schedule. However, the reliability of these sources varies:

RAPPLER and Mindanao Times are reputable news outlets in the Philippines, known for their journalistic standards. They provide timely updates on banking operations, especially during holidays 2 3.
PEP.ph and Spot.ph are also credible sources that compile information about banking hours during significant events, although they may focus more on entertainment and lifestyle content 4 7.
The official BDO website is a primary source for accurate and up-to-date information regarding branch operations, making it a highly reliable reference 6 10.

However, it is important to note that while these sources provide consistent information, they do not always cite specific internal communications from BDO, which could lend additional credibility to their claims. The absence of direct statements from BDO in some articles raises questions about the methodology behind the reported hours.

Additionally, potential conflicts of interest should be considered. For instance, news outlets may have partnerships or advertising relationships with financial institutions, which could influence how they report on banking operations. However, there is no clear evidence of bias in the reporting of BDO's hours in the sources reviewed.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The claim that BDO Unibank has specific operating hours during the holiday period surrounding the Barangay Elections and All Saints' Day is substantiated by multiple reliable sources, including reputable news outlets and the bank's official communications. The evidence indicates that on October 30, 2023, mall branches will operate from 1 PM until regular closing hours, while non-mall branches will be closed. On November 1, 2023, all branches will be closed, and on November 2, 2023, non-mall branches will open until 3 PM and mall branches until 4 PM.

However, it is essential to acknowledge that while the information is consistent across various sources, the lack of direct statements from BDO in some reports may limit the certainty of the operational hours. Readers should remain aware that discrepancies can arise, and it is advisable to verify the latest updates directly from BDO's official channels or website.

As always, readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider multiple sources before drawing conclusions.

Sources

Banco de Oro. Wikipedia
BDO announces branches' operating hours on October 30 to ... - RAPPLER. RAPPLER
BDO announces branches' schedule of operations for Oct 30 to Nov 2 - Mindanao Times. Mindanao Times
Bank hours and schedules for barangay, SK elections and Undas - PEP.ph. PEP.ph
BDO announces branches' operating hours on October 30 to November 2 - Ground News. Ground News
BDO. BDO Official Website
LIST: Bank Hours for 2023 BSKE, Undas Week - Spot.ph. Spot.ph
PDF October 30, 2023 METRO MANILA CALOOCAN PASAY MAKATI - BDO. BDO PDF
Undas 2024 bank schedules - RAPPLER. RAPPLER
Find a Branch or ATM near you | BDO Unibank. BDO Branch Locator