ATM cards are very convenient. It allows us to do various banking transactions anytime, anywhere. But do you know that using your ATM card from other bank’s machine are charged with service fees? Banks now charges up to Php 11 per withdrawal using other bank’s ATM and Php 1 per balance inquiry. 

The best way to save money is to use your own bank’s ATM machine. BPI has the most number of ATM machines installed and it woudn’t be difficult to find one. Note though that BPI charges $3 for withdrawals made from the Cirrus/Maestro network using other bank’s ATM.

If you frequent SM malls, BDO and Equitable bank’s ATM is ideal. BDO and Equitable customers can withdraw from each others ATM without charge. Both banks have merged recently.

If you withdraw several times a month, the Php 11 charge can easily add up. Be wise and withdraw only from your own banks ATM as much as possible. Better yet, choose a bank with the most number of branches and ATM’s.