MANILA, Philippines | March 12, 2025 – East West Banking Corporation (EastWest Bank) and Puregold Price Club, Inc. (Puregold) are set to officially launch their new co-branded credit card, the EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa, at an exclusive event on March 31, 2025. The event will take place at the prestigious Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), starting at 3:00 PM.

The launch event will be attended by key executives from both EastWest Bank and Puregold. From EastWest Bank, Chief Executive Officer Jerry G. Ngo, President and Director Jacqueline S. Fernandez, Executive Vice President & Consumer Lending Cluster Head Lawrence L. Lee, and Senior Vice President and Credit Cards Business Head Mia Tamayo will be present. Puregold will be represented by its owner Lucio Co, Chief Finance Officer Kenneth Tiu, and Marketing Head Ivy Piedad. Members of the media have also been invited to cover the event.

A Strategic Partnership for Smarter Spending

The EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa credit card is designed to offer customers greater value and convenience when shopping at Puregold stores and beyond. The card provides an impressive rewards structure. Every PHP 30 spent at Puregold is equivalent to 1 reward point. Meanwhile, every PHP 100 spent on other qualifying categories earn 1 reward point. With an annual fee of only PHP 600, the card makes it easy for consumers to maximize their funds while enjoying exclusive benefits.

The event will feature a signing ceremony to formalize the partnership between EastWest Bank and Puregold. This will be followed by the official unveiling of the card design and an audio-visual presentation (AVP) highlighting the card’s features and benefits. A media roundtable will provide members of the press with an opportunity to engage with executives from both companies and gain deeper insights into the partnership and the new card.

A Look at EastWest Bank's Growth and Legacy

East West Banking Corporation, more commonly known today as EastWest Bank, is one of the fastest-growing banks in the Philippines. The bank began operations on August 1, 1994, in Makati and is a part of the Filinvest Group, a major Philippine conglomerate with interests in real estate, hospitality, and financial services.

EastWest Bank has expanded steadily over the years through strategic mergers and acquisitions. In 2003, it acquired Ecology Savings Bank, a move that strengthened its foothold in the savings and mortgage sector. In 2009, EastWest Bank further expanded its consumer banking services by acquiring AIG Philam Savings Bank, boosting its credit card and loan portfolio. Today, EastWest Bank is known for its innovative banking products and customer-centric approach, offering a full range of financial services, including deposits, loans, investments, and credit cards.

Puregold’s Path to Retail Leadership

Puregold Price Club, Inc., or simply Puregold, is one of the largest and most established supermarket chains in the Philippines. It was founded in 1998 by businessman Lucio Co, with its first store opening in Mandaluyong. Over the years, Puregold has grown into a household name, known for offering competitive prices, a wide selection of products, and convenient locations.

Puregold’s growth strategy has focused on both organic expansion and acquisitions. The company has acquired several supermarket chains, including S&R Membership Shopping and DiviMart, further strengthening its market position. Today, Puregold operates hundreds of stores nationwide and caters to both retail and wholesale markets.

How EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa Benefits Consumers

Bringing together the strengths of EastWest Bank and Puregold, the EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa credit card provides customers with significant advantages in their everyday spending:

1. Earn More Rewards on Puregold Purchases

Cardholders will earn 1 reward point for every PHP 30 spent at Puregold, which means higher rewards for everyday necessities. This is especially beneficial for families and entrepreneurs who regularly shop for groceries and household items. Shopping using the card now allows them to accumulate points quickly and redeem them for future savings or perks.

2. Competitive Rewards on Other Spending

Beyond Puregold, the card offers 1 reward point for every PHP 100 spent on other purchases. This lets cardholders enjoy consistent rewards across various spending categories.

3. Affordable Annual Fee

With an annual fee of only PHP 600, the card is highly accessible and cost-effective for consumers. Compared to other rewards cards in the market, this affordable annual fee makes the card an appealing option for budget-conscious shoppers who still want to maximize their spending benefits.

A Win-Win Partnership for Consumers

The launch of the EastWest Puregold Always Panalo Visa credit card reflects a strategic partnership that leverages the strengths of both companies. EastWest Bank brings its expertise in financial products and customer service, while Puregold provides a vast retail network and a deep understanding of consumer needs. The result is a card that offers practical rewards and financial flexibility, helping cardholders make the most of their spending.