originally published in Aboitiz Eyes.
GT Storytellers Series
How often do you encounter work situations that test your integrity? For our UnionBankers, it’s easy to imagine that this is simply part of the workday, especially in an industry that demands it at a much higher level than others.
During our April 2025 SuperDuperCon episode, we heard a powerful example of what this kind of challenge requires and how, with professional prowess, our UnionBankers rise to meet it, as shared by Senior Branch Ambassador Francis Marasigan. In the midst of what seemed like a routine transaction, he noticed that something wasn’t quite right. What he did next not only protected our client but also reaffirmed what it truly means to live by our Aboitiz core values.
We had a client come in with a pretty substantial transaction—five checks, totaling PHP450 million, related to a property sale. As I was assisting them, some details just didn’t quite add up. I had a feeling something wasn’t right.
Good morning, everyone.
I’d like to share a story from our Ayala Alabang Country Club UnionBank Branch, involving a situation that highlighted the importance of what we do. My name is Francis Marasigan, and I’m an Aboitiz team member assigned in UnionBank as a Senior Ambassador from Branch Channel Management Group.
Back in May (2024), we had a client come in with a pretty substantial transaction—five checks, totaling PHP450 million, related to a property sale. As I was assisting them, some details just didn’t quite add up. I had a feeling something wasn’t right.
So, I suggested to the client that they hold off on finalizing anything until those checks were cleared—just to be on the safe side. Then, I decided to do a little more investigation, and contacted the issuing bank. It turns out that the account those checks were drawn on was already closed.
But even after that, I was still uneasy. Later, when the daily Returned Check Transmittal came in, those five checks were missing. That raised a red flag for me. I called up the Clearing Unit to have them take a look.
What we found was that they had missed downloading the PM Adjustment Window (PAW) report, which lists the returned checks from the afternoon processing. So, those checks weren’t on the transmittal. A simple oversight, but with potentially big consequences.
By being observant and following up, we were able to prevent a significant financial loss for our client. It’s a reminder that even with all our systems and procedures, it’s those moments where we pay attention, where we question things, that really make a difference.
This isn’t about me; it’s about the importance of being vigilant and doing our due diligence. It reinforces why we strive to uphold the principles we do here at UnionBank.
I believe this story is a clear demonstration of integrity. It’s not just about doing what’s right when it’s easy. Integrity is about having the courage to question, to investigate, to persist, even when it might seem like extra work. I didn’t simply accept information at face value; I saw inconsistencies and pursued the truth.
My commitment to resilience, my persistence in following up with the Clearing Unit, ensured the issue was identified and addressed. And my sensitivity to operations highlighted a critical flaw, leading to process improvements that will benefit us all.
This is what integrity looks like in action. It’s about taking ownership, being accountable, and always striving to do what’s best for our clients and for the Bank.
