Lifesaver in paradise. Guests of Kermit Siargao Resort enjoy flexible payment options—using BDO Credit or Debit Card, or BDO Pay—with the arrival of a full-service bank on the island.
Siargao has long been known for its world-class surfing, laid-back living, and vibrant international community. Guests come to unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy good food and company. Reliable banking is not usually part of the traveler’s checklist, but behind the scenes, it keeps the island running smoothly.
For established hospitality brands and long-time BDO merchant partners like Kermit Siargao Resort and Isla Cabana, dependable financial services are an essential part of daily operations—from paying staff to ensuring visitors enjoy seamless transactions.
A fresh swell of support
BDO understands the unique challenges of operating on a remote island. For years, two BDO Network Bank branches have been serving Siargao’s local communities—supported by 72 Cash Agad partners across far-flung barangays—giving residents access to cash and basic financial services.
But for resorts, reality used to be far more complicated with limited access to banking. Staff once had to ferry checks to the mainland for hours, travel off-island to process deposits, and juggle cash payments just to keep operations moving. These time-consuming logistics were stressful and far from the laid-back island vibe.
The opening of BDO Unibank in Siargao Town Center in Dapa marked a turning point for businesses on the island. Both Kermit and Island Cabana now enjoy faster access to deposits and payroll services, along with ATMs and card facilities for guests during peak season.
Seamless banking in paradise
“Having a full-service BDO branch on the island has significantly improved our operational efficiency. Access to comprehensive banking services supports our expansion plans and allows us to offer an enhanced guest experience,” shares Irene L. R de Luzuriaga, Chief Operating Officer at Kermit Siargao Resort.
For Isla Cabana Resort, cashless payments have been helpful. With most guests arriving from overseas, BDO point-of-sale terminals ensure transactions are completed in minutes. “Since our foreign guests rarely carry cash, card payments make everything smoother for them and for us,” explains Hanz Gladyne Litangan of Isla Cabana. “Today, guest transactions are faster, costs are reduced, and cash flow is improved,” she adds.
Smooth sailing with BDO. Clients of Isla Cabana enjoy cashless payment options using BDO's POS terminals, helping complete transactions in minutes.
The new BDO Unibank branch in Siargao operates Mondays to Saturdays, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM, offering easy access to ATMs, foreign exchange, and on-the-ground branch personnel support. Even when island connectivity fails, BDO’s digital solutions keep operations running smoothly.
Riding the next wave of growth
As Siargao cements its place as a premier global destination, BDO’s total presence in Siargao—BDO Unibank, BDO Network Bank, and Cash Agad—is helping businesses scale up with a strong financial support. From merchant payments to future-proof financing, BDO proves that doing business in paradise has never been more viable, secure, and even enjoyable.
Drop by the Siargao Town Center branch in Dapa to learn how BDO can support your business journey. Find the right banking solutions for you!
Then on April 18, join BDO Unibank, BDO Network Bank and Cash Agad for the BDO Siargao Island Festival at Paseo de Cabuntog, General Luna, where bank product experts will share best practices at the Siargao Entrepreneur talk show! Doors open at 2:00 PM. Everyone is invited, admission is free!
