For the first time in several yaears and after much work by management to return to our island's most-densely populated village, The People's Bank is returning to Dededo. Ground was broken today on General Ben Blaz Highway, right across from GRMC, for Bank of Guam's newest branch, the 18th location overall for the locally-owned financial services institution.

President and Chief Executive Officer Joaquin Cook proudly announced, "This northern branch is our commitment fulfilled. It stands as a symbol of our resilience, transformation, and our belief in our people. For nearly 40 years the communities of Dededo and Harmon have welcomed us into their lives. And now, we return – with a renewed vision. One that blends the warmth of personal connection with the power of modern banking."

"We're so excited!" added Lesley-Anne Leon Guerrero, Bank of Guam chief experience officer. "A couple of years ago we closed our Dededo and Harmon locales with the commitment that we would build back better and bigger."

The new branch will be 6,250 square feet, featuring three drive-up automated teller machines, a 24/7 ATM vestibule, a pair of walkup ATMs, and business areas and meeting rooms for the community.

Additionally, a very touching moment also took place as the first batch of gravel was turned, as Governor Lou Leon Guerrero used the exact same shovel that her late father, Jesus Leon Guerrero, used 52 years ago when he founded the bank.

The bank projects opening the Dededo branch in 2027.