Long-time OFW wins BDO Holiday Million Rewards

After more than 20 years of working as a mechanic in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, overseas Filipino worker (OFW) Benedicto “Benny” Marra has been named the grand winner of BDO Unibank’s Holiday Million Rewards Raffle.

Marra, a resident of Pangasinan and a long-time Kabayan Savings account holder, received P1 million worth of BDO Rewards Points. The prize was awarded following a December vacation during which Marra opened an ATM-access savings account and registered for the raffle via the BDO Pay app at the encouragement of bank staff.

“Life abroad is demanding. I’ve faced many hardships and even had an accident, but I endured all the sacrifices,” Marra said, recalling his two decades of labor in the Saudi capital. Initially skeptical of the promotion, he said he was “speechless” when he learned he had won the grand prize.

Cora A. Mallillin, BDO executive vice president and head of branch banking, said Marra’s story reflects the bank’s goal to reward clients who trust the institution with their hard-earned income.

Marra plans to use the rewards points at SM Store and SM Appliance Center to purchase essentials for his ongoing home renovation. He also intends to boost his retirement savings and secure a BDO Life policy for his grandchild.

Despite the windfall, Marra is set to return to Riyadh to continue his work. He said the win provides him with greater peace of mind regarding his family’s financial future.