it might compromise its ability to render public service to their respective entities under a unified set-up.
“The proposed merger of DBP and LBP is ill-advised because the two government banks have different visions and missions, unlike private banks that have identical aims and activities,” Panganiban said. “I think this rule [merger] does not apply to the two government banks.” DBP and LBP have separate distinct mandates, with the former focusing on four key sectors: infrastructure and logistics; micro, small and medium enterprises; the environment; and social services and community development, while the latter is geared towards small farmers and fisherfolk, agrarian reform beneficiaries and aqua-related businesses.