If you thought banking was boring, 2025 proved otherwise. From executive shake-ups to digital meltdowns, 2025 peeled back the curtain on how Philippine banking really works. Here’s a roundup of Bankero’s top 10 stories last year:
1. BDO rebuilds its power core
BDO bulked up its leadership by recruiting former Security Bank and ANZ executives, signaling that the country’s largest lender is far from coasting and fully geared for the next competitive cycle.
2. Chavit Singson enters the digital banking wars
Political heavyweight Chavit Singson launched vBank, pitching it as a financial lifeline for underserved Filipinos while staking a bold claim in the increasingly cutthroat digital banking space.
Chavit Singson’s VBank: A digital lifeline for underserved Filipinos
3. CIMB PH’s system glitches trigger customer backlash
Locked accounts. Frozen apps. Angry customers. CIMB Philippines’ repeated system failures turned into a full-blown PR headache—and a warning sign for fast-growing digital lenders.
4. Record profits, shrinking paychecks at the top
BDO posted historic profits, yet several top executives took home less pay. Meanwhile, mid-level officers and directors collectively earned more than ₱1 billion.
5. BDO locks down risk
With threats mounting, BDO tapped Christian San Juan as deputy chief risk officer—proof that when profits soar, paranoia follows.
6. China Bank reshuffles its senior ranks
China Banking Corp. elevated Licup to EVP and promoted Abella, part of a leadership recalibration as banks brace for tighter regulation, slower growth, and more scrutiny.
7. Security Bank loses a key deal maker
Arnold Bengco’s exit as EVP and financial markets head marked one of the year’s most closely watched departures, underscoring intensifying talent movement across the sector.
Arnold Bengco to step down as EVP, Financial Market Head at Security Bank
8. Maharlika CEO pay sparks side-eye
The Maharlika Investment Corp. chief confirmed receiving a ₱2.5-million salary—saying he didn’t ask for it and that it remains under review.
Maharlika’s Consing on P2.5M CEO salary: ‘I didn’t ask for it, still up for review’
9. Another senior exit at BDO
BDO SVP Tajanlangit stepped down for personal reasons, adding to a string of leadership changes inside the country’s biggest bank.
10. BPI exec crosses over to Ayala Corp
BPI EVP Juan Carlos Syquia’s move to Ayala Corp highlighted the revolving door between banks and conglomerates shaping Philippine finance.
Leadership transition: Zobel family taps BPI’s John-C Syquia as Ayala CFO
