Celebrating 150 Years in the Philippines

HSBC has been operating in the Philippines since 1875. We serve our customers through our global businesses: Corporate and Institutional Banking and International Wealth and Premier Banking. We have a network of six branches located in Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao, and a Global Service Centre servicing local and international HSBC markets.

HSBC’s rich history in the Philippines dates back to 1875 when its first branch in the country was opened in Binondo, Manila on 29 November 1875. It was established 10 years after the bank had opened for business in Hong Kong on 3 March 1865. Early business concentrated on the financing of the sugar trade and other main exports, and financed the building of some of the earliest sugar and rice mills in the country as well as contributed to the financing of the country’s first railway in 1883 – the Manila-Dagupan Railway.

In 1906, HSBC assisted in the development of the Manila-Dagupan Railway by financing its 150-mile extension. After Manila’s liberation in 1945, HSBC also helped in the country’s economic recovery through the reopening of its branch in the city and effort to return their depositors’ full funds after the war.

By the 1980s, HSBC has been active in growing its presence in the country and opening branches in key locations within Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao.

In recent years, HSBC has been investing in digital innovations to service customers’ changing needs and provide them with a more convenient and safer banking experience.

We have more than 5,000 employees in our Global Service Centre, who deliver high-quality financial and professional services. They play a vital role in driving great experiences for customers and colleagues, and enabling the bank’s strategy.

Learn more about HSBC Philippines’ notable recognitions in the industry by visiting our awards page.