⚖️ Bank Comparison

Metrobank vs Security Bank

By the Nook Editorial Team · Reviewed to Nook's editorial standards

Metrobank and Security Bank are two of the Philippines' most trusted home loan providers — but their rates, fees, and approval processes differ in ways that could cost or save you hundreds of thousands of pesos. Here's a clear, side-by-side breakdown to help you decide.

Our Verdict

Security Bank Edges Out Metrobank on Rate Transparency and Speed — But Nook Can Do Even Better

Security Bank's verified 5-year fixed rate of 6.75% p.a. gives it a meaningful edge over Metrobank's approximate market rates, and its 23-day typical approval timeline is competitive for a major Philippine bank. That said, if your goal is to minimize interest costs, Nook's network of partner banks — including Security Bank — can unlock rates as low as 5.99% p.a., with a free broker service that does the legwork for you.

Metrobank vs Security Bank Housing Loan: Quick Snapshot

Before diving into the details, here's a high-level look at how these two banks stack up on the metrics that matter most to Filipino homebuyers and refinancers.

FeatureMetrobankSecurity Bank
1-Year Fixed Rate~7.00%–8.00% p.a.*6.99% p.a.
5-Year Fixed Rate~7.25%–8.50% p.a.*6.75% p.a.
Home Equity Rate~8.00%–9.00% p.a.*7.50% p.a.
Minimum Monthly Income~₱50,000+*₱50,000
Typical Approval Time~30–45 days*~23 days
Max Debt-to-Income Ratio~40%*40%
Loan Purposes CoveredPurchase, Refinancing, Renovation*Purchase, Refinancing, Renovation, Home Equity, Pre-Selling, Foreclosed, New Construction
Nook Partner BankNoYes

*Metrobank rates and figures are approximate, based on publicly available information as of 2025, and are subject to change without notice. Always verify directly with Metrobank before making any financial decisions. Security Bank rates are verified Nook partner rates.

Interest Rate Comparison: The Numbers That Matter Most

For most borrowers, the interest rate is the single biggest factor in a housing loan decision — and small differences compound dramatically over a 15–25 year term. Let's break down what each bank is offering.

Security Bank (Verified Nook Partner Rates)

These rates are confirmed and current as provided directly to Nook as an authorized broker partner. When you apply through Nook, you benefit from these verified rates with no broker fees charged to you.

Metrobank (Approximate Market Rates)

Metrobank is one of the Philippines' largest banks and a well-established housing loan provider. However, Metrobank is not a Nook partner bank, so we cannot confirm their current promotional rates with the same precision. Based on publicly available information, Metrobank's fixed housing loan rates have typically ranged from around 7.00% to 8.50% p.a. depending on fixing period, loan amount, and borrower profile. These figures are approximate and subject to change.

Real-World Savings Illustration

To show how much a rate difference can matter, consider a ₱3,000,000 loan on a 20-year term:

Rate ScenarioMonthly Payment (approx.)Total Interest Paid (approx.)
7.50% p.a. (approx. Metrobank mid-range)₱24,100₱2,784,000
6.75% p.a. (Security Bank 5-Year Fixed)₱22,700₱2,448,000
5.99% p.a. (Best Nook Rate)₱21,500₱2,160,000

The difference between a 7.50% rate and the best Nook rate of 5.99% amounts to roughly ₱624,000 in total interest savings over 20 years — on a single ₱3,000,000 loan. For larger loan amounts, the savings multiply further.

Note: Monthly payments and total interest figures above are rounded estimates for illustration purposes only and do not account for processing fees, insurance, or other costs.

Loan Products and Purposes: What Can You Use the Loan For?

Both banks offer housing loans for a range of purposes, but Security Bank's product coverage is notably broader — particularly for borrowers looking to refinance or access home equity.

Loan PurposeMetrobankSecurity Bank
Ready For Occupancy (RFO)✓*
Refinancing✓*
Renovation✓*
Home EquityLimited*
Pre-Selling✓*
New Construction✓*
Foreclosed PropertiesLimited*
Reselling✓*

*Metrobank product availability is based on general market knowledge and may vary. Confirm directly with Metrobank for your specific situation.

For borrowers specifically looking to refinance their existing home loan, Security Bank's clear refinancing product with a verified 6.75% 5-year fixed rate is a strong option. If you're comparing refinancing options more broadly, our guide on Metrobank vs Security Bank refinance rates goes deeper on that specific use case.

Eligibility and Borrower Profile

Knowing whether you qualify is just as important as knowing the rate. Here's how each bank approaches eligibility.

Security Bank Eligibility (Verified)

Security Bank's openness to OFWs, freelancers, and BPO workers makes it one of the more inclusive major banks for housing loans in the Philippines — a significant advantage for borrowers who don't fit the traditional employed-in-a-large-corporation profile.

Metrobank Eligibility (Approximate)

Metrobank generally requires a minimum monthly income in the ₱50,000 range for housing loans, with a DTI ratio threshold of approximately 40%. They accept private employees, self-employed individuals, and professionals. Specific requirements for OFWs and freelancers may vary — it's advisable to contact Metrobank directly to confirm eligibility for non-traditional employment types.

Application Process and Approval Timeline

The home loan process in the Philippines can be notoriously slow — but there's significant variation between banks.

Process StepMetrobankSecurity Bank
Application SubmissionBranch or online*Branch, online, or via Nook
Document Processing~1–2 weeks*Efficient, streamlined
Typical Approval Time~30–45 days*~23 days
Free Broker AssistanceNot via NookYes, via Nook (free)

Security Bank's ~23-day typical approval timeline is a genuine competitive advantage in the Philippine market, where many banks take 30–60 days. When you apply through Nook, our team handles document preparation, follow-ups, and bank coordination — at no cost to you.

Why Consider Applying Through Nook Instead of Going Direct?

Whether you're leaning toward Security Bank or still evaluating Metrobank, there's a strong case for letting Nook handle your application:

Most Filipino homeowners paying between 7% and 10% on their existing home loan are eligible to refinance to a significantly lower rate. If your current rate is above 6.75%, there's a good chance Nook can save you money.

For a broader three-way comparison that includes BDO alongside these two banks, see our BDO vs Metrobank vs Security Bank home loan rates comparison.

Fees and Other Costs to Consider

Beyond the interest rate, home loans in the Philippines typically involve several fees. While exact fee structures change and should be verified directly with each bank, common costs include:

When comparing total cost of borrowing, always factor in these fees alongside the interest rate. Nook's team can help you understand the full cost picture before you commit to any bank.

All interest rates mentioned on this page are subject to change. Security Bank rates are verified as of the time of publication but may be updated. Metrobank rates are approximate based on publicly available information. Always confirm current rates directly with the relevant bank or through Nook before making any financial decision.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Security Bank's current housing loan interest rate?

Security Bank's verified housing loan rates (as a Nook partner bank) are: 1-Year Fixed at 6.99% p.a., 5-Year Fixed at 6.75% p.a., and Home Equity at 7.50% p.a. These rates are subject to change — apply through Nook to confirm the latest rates at no cost to you.

What is Metrobank's current housing loan interest rate?

Metrobank's housing loan rates are not publicly confirmed through Nook as Metrobank is not a Nook partner bank. Based on publicly available information, Metrobank's fixed rates have typically ranged from approximately 7.00% to 8.50% p.a. depending on fixing period and borrower profile. We recommend contacting Metrobank directly or speaking with a Nook advisor who can help you compare your options across multiple banks.

Which bank is better for housing loans — Metrobank or Security Bank?

Based on verified data, Security Bank offers a competitive 5-year fixed rate of 6.75% p.a. and a faster typical approval time of around 23 days. It also accepts a wider range of employment types including OFWs, BPO workers, and freelancers. Metrobank is a reputable institution but its rates are not verified through Nook, making direct comparison harder. For most borrowers seeking a lower rate and transparent process, Security Bank — or a broader Nook comparison across multiple partner banks — is worth exploring.

Can I refinance my Metrobank housing loan to Security Bank?

Yes, it is generally possible to refinance a Metrobank housing loan to Security Bank, provided your property, income, and remaining loan balance meet Security Bank's eligibility criteria. Nook can help you assess whether refinancing makes financial sense in your situation and handle the application process for free. Many homeowners with rates above 7% find that refinancing leads to significant monthly and long-term savings.

How long does Security Bank take to approve a housing loan?

Security Bank's typical housing loan approval timeline is approximately 23 days from complete document submission. This is faster than many Philippine banks, which can take 30–60 days. Applying through Nook can help ensure your documents are complete and correctly submitted, reducing the risk of delays.

What income do I need to qualify for a Security Bank housing loan?

Security Bank requires a minimum monthly income of ₱50,000. They accept applicants from a wide range of employment backgrounds including private employees, government workers, BPO employees, OFWs and seafarers, self-employed individuals, licensed professionals, and freelancers. The maximum debt-to-income ratio allowed is 40%.

Is Nook's mortgage broker service really free?

Yes, Nook's service is 100% free for borrowers. Nook is compensated by the partner banks, not by the homeowners who use the service. This means you can access verified rates, professional guidance, and streamlined application support at no cost to you.

What is the best housing loan rate available in the Philippines right now?

The best refinance rate currently available through Nook's partner bank network is 5.99% p.a. This is significantly lower than what most Filipino homeowners are currently paying, which typically ranges from 7% to 10%. Eligibility for the best rates depends on your loan amount, property type, income, and credit profile.