China Bank Savings (CBS) deepens its partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) this National Teacher’s Month and National Teacher’s Day, with an over 36 percent year-on-year increase in donations. A total of ?15 million in donations will support programs planned throughout the nationwide celebration of educators, up from ?11 million in 2025.
CBS’ annual support for DepEd through NTM has increased fivefold, a 400% growth over five years since 2021. This sustained growth reflects CBS’ continuing efforts to give back to the educators who play a vital role in shaping the country’s future. The 2026 increase is especially meaningful considering current, rough economic conditions.
Another significant investment by CBS is the launch of the APD Smart App, a milestone in the digitalization of the Automatic Payroll Deduction (APD) Program. Designed to provide greater convenience and accessibility, the APD Smart App enables educators to conveniently manage
their loan accounts and access essential services anytime, anywhere. The initiative reflects CBS’ commitment to delivering faster, simpler, and more efficient banking solutions tailored to the evolving needs of Filipino teachers.
Complementing this digital transformation is the continued expansion of the APD Digital Desk, bringing CBS services even closer to educators across the country. By strengthening its digital service channels, the Bank enhances accessibility while providing a more seamless customer experience, ensuring that financial assistance and banking services remain readily available where teachers need them most.
Supporting these initiatives is CBS’ continuing nationwide expansion of its Retail Banking network and APD Lending Centers. The Bank remains committed to bringing its products and services closer to more communities by opening additional branches and lending centers across strategic locations nationwide. This expansion strengthens CBS’ mission of providing easier access to banking and financial services while supporting the growing needs of individuals, families, and institutions.
“Our growing support for DepEd, our expanding Financial Wellness Roadshow, and our continued investments in digital and physical access reflect our commitment to being a reliable partner to our educators. We remain committed to delivering Easy Banking for You while helping our teachers move closer to financial wellness and, ultimately, financial freedom.” CBS President
James Christian T. Dee added.
“At China Bank Savings, we recognize that empowering educators goes beyond providing financial products—it means continuously innovating, expanding access, and investing in programs that genuinely improve their financial well-being,” CBS FVP II Niel C Jumawan shared.
NTM & NTD Plans
As part of the upcoming National Teachers Month celebration, CBS is set to officially kick off this year’s nationwide festivities alongside the President of the Republic of the Philippines, reaffirming its enduring partnership with DepEd and the teaching community. The annual celebration recognizes the invaluable contribution of Filipino educators in nation-building while highlighting CBS’ unwavering support through accessible financial solutions, meaningful engagement programs, and initiatives that give back to the education sector.
Preparations are likewise underway for the much-anticipated National Teachers’ Day celebration in October 2026, where CBS once again looks forward to honoring educators through exciting activities, special recognitions, and generous prizes that celebrate their dedication and service to the nation.
CBS is also making measurable progress in its commitment to financial wellness for educators. Through its continuing Financial Wellness Roadshow, conducted in partnership with various Schools Division Offices and educational institutions across the country, the Bank provides
teachers with practical knowledge on responsible financial management, savings, investments,
and long-term financial planning. The CBS 2026 Financial Wellness Roadshow will benefit 2,000 educators. 985 faculty and staff have already participated in seminars held earlier this year, and the target is expected to be hit with multiple financial wellness sessions to be held in September for National Teacher’s Month.
The milestone demonstrates the growing reach of the Bank’s financial education efforts. With innovation, accessibility, and financial empowerment at the forefront, China Bank Savings continues to strengthen its partnership with the education sector—increasing its support for DepEd, expanding financial wellness opportunities for educators, and providing accessible banking solutions that help Filipino teachers build a more financially resilient future.
About China Bank Savings
China Bank Savings serves the financing and banking needs of educators, SMEs, salaried workers, and retail customers nationwide. CBS operates through its growing network of 190 branches, 107 lending centers and branch-lite units, 299 ATMs, and digitally enabled customer touchpoints.
Through its commitment to accessible and inclusive banking, CBS remains true to its brand promise: “Easy Banking for You.”
