UnionBank Earns Recognition for Championing Inclusion

The bank’s UMatter program shows how a people-first culture built on respect and diversity can drive innovation, engagement, and performance.

At the recent Investors in People (IiP) Philippines Awards 2025, UnionBank earned the Runner-Up spot in the Diversity & Inclusion category.

Unionbank’s Ms. Pinky Diokno, Director of Investors, along with Head of Employer Branding & Employee Communications, Ms. May Galang-Buencamino, receive the Diversity & Inclusion Award at the IiP Awards 2025 — celebrating the bank’s people-first approach through its flagship UMatter program. (Photos: Unionbank)

This recognition shines a bright light on the bank’s deep commitment to building a workplace where every individual feels valued and empowered.

In a highly competitive field, the accolade underscores UnionBank’s philosophy that a people-first culture is not just an ideal but a strategic advantage.

By embracing employees across age, gender, ability, and background, the bank fosters a dynamic environment where fresh ideas emerge naturally. Its flagship initiative, UMatter, has become the heart of that effort.

UMatter is not just a symbolic program — it is a living framework that ensures inclusion, respect, psychological safety, and equal voice for all team members.

Through UMatter, UnionBank listens, adapts, and co-creates policies with employees rather than imposing them top-down.

For Chief Human Resource Officer Michelle Rubio the award is affirmation. She has consistently said that inclusion is not just ethically right but also fuels innovation, stronger engagement, and higher performance.

“We believe our differences are our strength. By crafting policies and programs that reflect the real-life experiences of our people, we build not only a more inclusive workplace — but a more innovative one,” said Rubio.

Given this recognition by a respected organization such as Investors in People, UnionBank’s message to its stakeholders is clear: people matter, and when people feel seen and supported, performance follows.

Through UMatter, UnionBank listens, adapts, and co-creates policies with employees rather than imposing them top-down.

For stakeholders, clients, and potential talent this is more than a PR moment — it is proof of a bank evolving toward purpose-led growth.

For young professionals who expect more from their institutions UnionBank now stands as a beacon. It shows that in finance you can succeed and also build community, equity, and respect.