RCBC Reports 11% Profit Growth, Reaching PHP 10.6 Billion in 2025

Total assets reached PHP 1.4 trillion, supported by strong deposit figures and the issuance of sustainability bonds.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) recorded an 11% increase in its net income for 2025, reaching PHP 10.6 billion (US$183.71 million), Asian Banking & Finance reported.

This financial growth was primarily fuelled by a 32% surge in net interest income alongside a 25% rise in service fees.

The Yuchengco-led financial institution attributed these improved figures to a broader, more diverse funding base that effectively lowered operational costs.

By the close of the year, the Daily Tribune noted that the bank’s total assets stood at PHP 1.4 trillion, backed heavily by PHP 1 trillion in total deposits.

Current and savings accounts (CASA) constituted over half of this deposit base.

Furthermore, the lender fortified its balance sheet by securing PHP 32.4 billion through sustainability bonds, designed to fund environmentally and socially beneficial projects while diversifying funding sources.

The bank’s net interest margin saw an improvement of 89 basis points, settling at 4.77%.

Gross customer loans grew by 7% during the period, with consumer lending making up nearly half (49%) of the total portfolio.

Consumer loans overall expanded by 29%.

Meanwhile, credit card receivables jumped 32%, largely driven by an 18% increase in newly issued cards as the bank successfully engaged a more affluent clientele.

Profitability metrics reflected this upward trajectory, with return on equity increasing to 6.65% and return on assets reaching 0.81%.

Regarding technological deployments, the bank introduced new digital payment solutions, including Google Pay access and a Tap-to-Phone feature for merchants.

Indonesia‑Philippines exchange highlights PPP Center’s expertise

The Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center of the Philippines, with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), welcomed delegates from the Government of Indonesia for a comprehensive knowledge exchange visit at the PPP Center Boardroom in Quezon City on February 12, 2026.

The activity served as a platform to foster cross-border collaboration by sharing good practices in advancing quality PPP projects. It also provided an opportunity for both nations to address common challenges in mobilizing private sector capital for public welfare. ADB also presented how it works with partners to mobilize sovereign and non-sovereign financing.

Mr. Renadi Budiman, Deputy Country Director of the ADB Indonesia Resident Mission underscored the importance of regional cooperation in infrastructure development during his opening remarks. “The session will highlight what has made the PPP Center effective in practice, including critical success factors and lessons that may be relevant or adaptable in other country contexts. We will also reflect collaboration between the PPP Center and ADB in supporting the PPP sector. We will then turn to PPP project development and implementation in practice, sharing concrete experiences and lessons learned from project preparation through to delivery,” he remarked.

During the learning sessions, Assistant Secretary and PPP Center Deputy Executive Director Eleazar E. Ricote provided the delegation with an in-depth look at the Philippine’ PPP Program and its robust legal framework. In addition, the Indonesian delegation and the PPP Center also explored various avenues for knowledge sharing and technical exchange on infrastructure development, policy frameworks, and project implementation.

The discussion also covered ADB’s role in empowering member countries to secure private investment and foster growth across the Asia-Pacific region, including Indonesia. ADB representatives likewise highlighted their services, such as capacity building, project identification, and transaction advisory, as well as post-commercial support for contract management and project monitoring.

The delegation, led by Mr. Putut Hari Satyaka, Deputy Minister for Development Financing and Investment of the Ministry of National Development Planning, represented a diverse range of Indonesian institutions, including officials from the National Development Planning, Finance, Health, Public Works, and Marine Affairs and Fisheries. With support from ADB representatives from the Indonesia Resident Mission, Office of Market Development and Public-Private Partnership and Private Sector Operations Department—all of whom engaged in the knowledge exchange of the good practices in the PPP framework—the delegation also engaged with other Philippine government agencies, including the Department of Environment and National Resources, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Transportation, the Bureau of Internal Revenue, and the Philippine Competition Commission

Following the knowledge sharing sessions, the delegation visited several landmark PPP projects in Metro Manila. These field activities provided participants with firsthand insights into the practical and operational aspects of PPP projects, illustrating how these projects improve the daily life and livelihoods of local communities.

The visit underscores the PPP Center’s unwavering commitment to excellence and demonstrates its expertise in facilitating viable PPP projects that accelerate sustainable infrastructure development in the country—serving as a benchmark model for PPP agencies worldwide.

#PPPCenterofthePhilippines

Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health

Quezon City — Lawmakers, the Quezon City Government, and public health advocates marched together on February 22, 2026, along Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City, to mark Philippine Heart Month and call for stronger food policies that protect Filipino families from heart disease and other diet-related diseases.

The event, titled “Step Up for Healthier Hearts: Sama-samang Hakbang para sa Kalusugan,” united legislators, civil society organizations, and community members in support of three pending measures in Congress: the Healthy Food Environment (HFE) bill, the Front-of-Pack Warning Label (FOPWL) bill, and the Sodium Reformulation bill.

Legislators voice commitment to heart health

Akbayan Representatives Perci Cendaña and Chel Diokno, principal authors of House Bill no. 6834 (HFE Bill), walked in solidarity and pledged their commitment to building a healthy food environment for Filipinos.

Cendaña underscored the importance of clear consumer information and preventive measures, noting, “Dapat may mandatory front-of-package warning labels ang mga laps [pagkain]. Gaya sa love, ang laps, dapat may label. Para alam natin kung keri pa, o major red flag na. Hopefully, the Healthy Food Environment Bill that Akbayan Partylist is pushing for leaves our hospitals with fewer cases of stroke, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases.”

(“There should be mandatory front-of-pack warning labels on food products. Just like love, food should also have labeles—so we’ll know if it’s healthy or already a major red flag. Hopefully, the Healthy Food Environment Bill that Akbayan Partylist is pushing for leaves our hospitals with fewer cases of stroke, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases.”)

Picking up on Cendaña’s call for transparency and informed choices, Diokno emphasized the need for stronger protections for Filipinos: "Kailangan meron ding pananagutan ang mga gagawa ng bagay ng mga hindi nakakatulong sa ating kabataan at lahat ng mga Pilipino. Kailangan natin itong mga panukalang ito [Healthy Food Environment Bill], at sana ay masuportahan ito."

(“There must be accountability for those who produce food and beverages that do not benefit our youth and all Filipinos. We need these proposed measures [Healthy Food Environment Bill] and we hope they will be supported.”)

As of February, 24 bills enabling a healthy food environment have been filed in Congress, with 28 principal authors and 46 co-authors—reflecting a growing momentum for the measures.

Local government initiatives

In the local government,. Councilor Atty. Vincent Belmonte of Quezon City highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen heart health and nutrition programs, stressing that Philippine Heart Month is more than just promoting a healthy lifestyle—it is a call for stronger food environments that protect communities. 

“Dito sa Quezon City, meron tayong Healthy Public Food Procurement policy para siguardong ang pondo ng taumbayan ay napupunta sa masustansya at healthy na pagkain. Proud din tayo sa ating Calorie Labeling Ordinance na tumutulong sa mga residente na mas maging maingat sa kanilang kinakain, lalo na ang may mga iniindang sakit.”

(“Here in Quezon City, we have a Healthy Public Food Procurement policy to ensure that public funds are spent on nutritious and healthy food. We are also proud of our Calorie Labeling Ordinance, which helps residents to be more mindful of what they eat, especially those with existing health conditions.”)

Medical and civil society support

Beyond legislators, medical leaders and public health advocates affirmed that heart disease prevention must begin with the food environment. Dr. Rodney Jimenez of the Philippine Heart Association (PHA) reminded the public of the urgency: “To this day, heart disease remains the leading health concern of Filipinos; and if we want to break that cycle, we must start with the food environment. Stronger policies on nutrition labeling, food marketing, and reformulation of high-sodium products can ensure that the next generation grows up with healthier choices and healthier hearts.”

Atty. Sophia San Luis, Executive Director of ImagineLaw, reiterated the need for systemic health protections through swift congressional action. “Mahirap talagang maging healthy dahil ang mga industriya ng pagkain ay hindi sinasabi sa atin kapag hindi nakakabuti sa kalusugan ang ating pagkain. Kaya sana ay masuportahan ng ating mga mambabatas ang Healthy Food Environment Bill, Front-of-Pack Warning Label Bill, at Sodium Reformulation Bill para ang mga Pilipino ay maging malusog at makapagdesisyon nang tama pagdating sa pagkain.”

(“It is difficult for families to make healthy choices when the food industry does not disclose when products are harmful to our health. That is why our lawmakers must support the Healthy Food Environment Bill, Front-of-Pack Warning Label Bill, and Sodium Reformulation Bill so that Filipinos can live healthier lives and make the right decisions when it comes to food.”)

The wellness walk also featured interactive activities such as Taichi and Fight Form, interactive exhibits, advocacy booths, and a commitment wall where legislators, advocates, and other participants pledged support for healthier food environments, underscoring the collective effort to advance heart health.

PHOTOS FROM  urgency of building a healthy food environment through stronger food policies such as the Healthy Food Environment Bill, the Front-of-Pack Warning Label Bill, and the Sodium Reformulation Bill.

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (04)

Quezon City Councilor Atty. Vincent Belmonte proudly shares the city’s health and nutrition initiatives during the Step Up for Healthier Hearts Wellness Walk such as their Healthy Public Food Procurement policy and the Calorie Labeling Ordinance.

File name: Solons, Quezon City, and Advocates March for Stronger Food Policies on Heart Health (05)

Community moms bring energy and joy to the Step Up for Healthier Hearts Wellness Walk with a spirited zumba session.: 

*BIR Launches 2026 National Tax Campaign Banner“Mahusay na Serbisyo, Katumbas ng Buwis Mo”*

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), headed by Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza, formally kicked off its 2026 National Tax Campaign with a grand event held at the Philippine International Convention Center on February 13, 2026.

 

The National Tax Campaign Kickoff is a major annual activity that officially commences the Bureau’s tax campaign efforts for the year. It gathered leaders and representatives from government agencies, business and professional organizations, multi-sectoral partners, and private institutions, demonstrating broad-based support for the Bureau’s reform and revenue mobilization agenda.

 

This year’s campaign carries the theme, “Mahusay na Serbisyo, Katumbas ng Buwis Mo,” underscoring the Bureau’s firm commitment to deliver efficient, transparent, and responsive public service commensurate to every peso of taxes paid. The campaign reinforces that paying the correct taxes on time is both a civic duty and a concrete contribution to nation-building.

 

Strong 2025 Performance and Reform Milestones

 

In 2025, the BIR collected a total of ₱3.105 trillion in revenues, surpassing its collection target and sustaining its upward trajectory. This achievement reflects improved voluntary compliance, more focused enforcement, and sustained efforts to modernize systems and processes.

 

In addition, the Bureau recorded significant gains under the Estate Tax Amnesty program. With the passage of Republic Act (RA) No. 11956 in 2023, the period for availment of the Estate Tax Amnesty pursuant to RA No. 11213 was extended until June 14, 2025, and its coverage expanded to include the settlement of estate taxes of decedents who died on or before May 31, 2022. From January to June 2025 alone, the BIR collected a total of ₱4.603 billion from 100,786 availers of the Estate Tax Amnesty, contributing to revenue generation while enabling taxpayers to settle long-standing estate tax liabilities under simplified terms.

 

Central to the Bureau’s reform agenda is Digital Transformation. In 2025, the BIR took significant strides toward a more transparent, secure, and taxpayer-centered tax administration.

 

One of the most notable developments is the introduction of the first-ever BIR Interactive Digital Tax Calendar for 2026, accessible through the BIR website (www.bir.gov.ph). The online platform is designed to help taxpayers and tax practitioners easily track, manage, and comply with tax return filing and payment deadlines, minimizing errors and promoting timely compliance.

 

Another milestone is the rollout of the BIR Registration Seal Badge, along with the inclusion of a Quick Response (QR) Code in the Certificate of Registration (COR)/Electronic COR and Authority to Print (ATP). This initiative serves as a strong safeguard against fraud and fake registrations, enabling instant online verification of a taxpayer’s identity and business legitimacy. Taxpayers engaged in e-commerce or online business activities are required to display the BIR Registration Seal Badge on their websites or e-commerce platforms as proof of valid registration.

 

The Bureau likewise introduced the Letter of Authority (LOA) Verifier through ChatBot REVIE, empowering taxpayers to verify the authenticity of issued LOAs using basic taxpayer information. This innovation enhances transparency, protects taxpayers from unauthorized audit activities, ensures accountability within the system, and establishes a single, official, and reliable channel of communication.

 

Further demonstrating the success of digitalization efforts, the percentage share of e-Payment Collection to Total BIR Tax Collection reached 85% in 2025—evident of the growing number of taxpayers opting to settle their obligations through various electronic payment channels.

 

Dedicated booths during the Kickoff event provided live demonstrations of these digital tools, guiding stakeholders on how to maximize the new platforms and reinforcing the Bureau’s commitment to proactive taxpayer assistance.

Gracing the event was Department of Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go, who conveyed the Department’s continued support for the Bureau’s reform initiatives. In his audio-visual message, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. extended his warm greetings and congratulations to the Bureau as it led this year’s National Tax Campaign Kickoff.

President Marcos underscored that the campaign theme, “Mahusay na Serbisyo, Katumbas ng Buwis Mo,” reflects the administration’s commitment to strengthening reforms and improving policies in pursuit of a Bagong Pilipinas for every Filipino.

"I send my warmest greetings and congratulations to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) as you lead this year’s National Tax Campaign Kickoff. Ang inyong tema, "Mahusay na Serbisyo, Katumbas ng Buwis mo" ay malinaw na paalala ng pangako ng ating administrasyon sa pagpapaigting ng reporma at pag-aayos ng mga polisiya tungo sa hinahangad nating bagong Pilipinas para sa bawat Pilipino.

The BIR is in the business of revenue generation and its reform program must remain anchored on that singular goal—generating the resources needed to fund vital public services. So, I remind the BIR that revenue collection rests on public trust and therefore ensure that our reforms are geared towards making our tax system more transparent and more predictable. Make tax compliance easier and implementation fair and firm.

Binabati ko rin ang ating mga taxpayer na patuloy na nag-cocomply at nagbabayad ng wastong buwis. Kayo ang kaagapay ng pamahalaan sa pagpapalago ng ating ekonomiya at sa pagsusulong ng pag-unlad ng ating bayan. Sa pagtutulungan ng pamahalaan at mamamayan, mas marami pa tayong magagawa."

In his keynote message, Commissioner Mendoza emphasized that the Bureau will continue to balance firm and fair enforcement with improved service delivery.

“We are not here today to solely give instruction to our tax collectors. We are here mainly to offer assurance to our taxpayers. We are assembled here to make a collective vow to extend great, faster and honest service to you, our taxpayers. Because BIR goals should not be expressed in BESF numbers alone. It should also be paired with client satisfaction. No matter how high the target or how hard the work, we should not lose sight of the fact that how we treat the public is as important as the bottom line—as the money we remit to the Treasury. Because when the government serves well, compliance becomes easier,” Commissioner Mendoza stated.

The official 2026 Tax Campaign logo was likewise presented during the program. The heart, rendered in the colors of the Philippine National Flag, represents the Bureau’s sincerity and dedication to the Filipino people, embodying its commitment to serve with care, integrity, and professionalism. Within the heart, the BIR and Bagong Pilipinas logos unite the Bureau’s mandate with the nation’s broader vision for progress—the BIR logo, with its pillar, eagle, three stars, united figures, and coin, symbolizes institutional strength, nationwide reach, and collective effort in taxation, while the Bagong Pilipinas logo reflects the country’s journey toward renewal and inclusive development. Their placement affirms that excellent and professional tax administration is essential to building the future that all Filipinos deserve. At the tip of the heart, two hands emerge, symbolizing the partnership between the Bureau and taxpayers—representing shared responsibility and mutual commitment, where competent, predictable, and responsive public service is matched by voluntary compliance in pursuit of national development.

The successful launch of the 2026 National Tax Campaign signals the Bureau’s readiness to sustain revenue growth, deepen digital transformation, strengthen enforcement, and uphold service excellence throughout the year.

HKIAC appointed as Adjudicator Nominating Body under the Security of Payment Ordinance

The Construction Industry Security of Payment Ordinance (Cap. 652) (“SOPO”) came into full effect on 28 August 2025. The SOPO aims to facilitate the recovery of payments under construction contracts and to provide a mechanism for speedy resolution of payment disputes through adjudication proceedings.

HKIAC has been appointed as an Adjudicator Nominating Body (“ANB”) under the SOPO by the Development Bureau of the Government of the HKSAR and is authorised to perform the functions of an ANB as specified in the SOPO, including the appointment of adjudicators. HKIAC has established a qualified Panel of Adjudicators under the SOPO.

The SOPO applies to main contracts for carrying out construction work (with contract value of not less than HK$5 million), and main contracts for the supply of goods (e.g. materials and plant) or services related to the construction work (with contract value of not less than HK$0.5 million). Sub-contracts under the same supply chain of applicable main contracts will also be governed by the SOPO.

HKIAC Secretariat Welcomes New Managing Counsel and Announces Internal Promotions

The Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) is delighted to announce that Jocelyn Heng will join HKIAC as Managing Counsel on 12 January 2026. 

Jocelyn is a Canadian national and a dual-qualified lawyer in Hong Kong and England & Wales. She brings over a decade of experience in international arbitration and commercial litigation to HKIAC. Jocelyn joins HKIAC from her role as Senior Associate at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, where she advised clients across diverse sectors such as cryptocurrency, financial services, telecommunications, consumer goods, and construction. She has managed arbitration cases seated in multiple jurisdictions, with notable experience handling complex cross-border disputes under HKIAC’s rules. Jocelyn is fluent in English, Mandarin and Cantonese, and obtained her LLB degree and Postgraduate Certificate in Laws from the University of Hong Kong.

In her new role at HKIAC, she will lead the arbitration team and oversee case management, as well as develop and support initiatives to strengthen stakeholder engagement worldwide.

Jocelyn Heng said, “I am honoured to join HKIAC as Managing Counsel at a time when Hong Kong is a leading global arbitration hub. I look forward to working closely with the Secretariat team, practitioners, and users worldwide to support HKIAC's mission and contribute to its continued leadership as a premier arbitral institution.”

Neil Kaplan CBE KC SBS, Arbitrator, Arbitration Chambers, commented, “I am delighted that Jocelyn Heng is joining HKIAC as Managing Counsel. Jocelyn brings to the role considerable experience in international arbitration from her former role at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer. Along with Joanne and Kiran, she will make a formidable leadership team which I am sure will keep HKIAC at the forefront of efficiency and innovation.”

Robert Tang GBM SBS QC SC JP, Arbitrator and Mediator; former Permanent Judge of the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal, said, “I welcome the appointment of Ms. Jocelyn Heng as Managing Counsel, a sure sign of HKIAC’s commitment to maintaining Hong Kong’s position as a leading International Arbitration Centre.”

Jeffrey Waincymer, Arbitrator; Professor of National University of Singapore, said, "Having had the privilege of working closely with Jocelyn, I am delighted, but by no means surprised, to see that HKIAC continues to attract the most highly personable, intelligent and efficient practitioners to its most senior positions. Congratulations to both Jocelyn and HKIAC."

In addition, HKIAC is pleased to announce two internal promotions within its Secretariat.

HKIAC appointed Xi Zhang as Head of China Relations, effective from 1 January 2026. 

Xi joined HKIAC as Chief Representative of the Beijing Representative Office in October 2024. Since joining HKIAC, she has led the successful establishment and official inauguration of HKIAC’s Beijing Representative Office. Since opening, the Beijing Representative Office has been actively involved in more than 40 events and training programmes, supporting HKIAC’s strategic initiatives and engagement efforts in Mainland China. In her new role as Head of China Relations, Xi will lead HKIAC’s activities in Mainland China and continue to strengthen collaboration between the international arbitration communities in Mainland China and globally. She will focus on deepening engagement with users and key stakeholders, enhancing service coordination and user experience, and further consolidating HKIAC’s presence and outreach across China. 

HKIAC appointed Kelly Ip as Business Development Director, effective from 1 January 2026. 

Kelly joined HKIAC as Deputy Business Development Director in April 2025, overseeing the development and execution of HKIAC’s business development and marketing strategies. During this time, she successfully delivered Hong Kong Arbitration Week 2025 and a series of initiatives to celebrate HKIAC’s 40th Anniversary. Kelly also worked closely with the team to organise events across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Drawing on her extensive experience in legal business development and marketing, Kelly will lead HKIAC’s Business Development Team and set new standards for excellence and growth at HKIAC in her new role.

Joanne Lau commented, “We are delighted to welcome Jocelyn as Managing Counsel. With her extensive international arbitration experience, gained at a leading international firm, she will be a valuable addition to HKIAC. We are equally delighted to celebrate the well-deserved promotions of Xi and Kelly. HKIAC is proud to continue attracting and nurturing exceptional talent. These appointments underscore our commitment to delivering the high quality services that HKIAC is known for, and ensuring we remain one of the most trusted dispute resolution institutions in the world.”

MIAS 2026: Powering Mobility for the Future of the Automotive Industry

The drive towards mobility starts now! Following the successful celebration of its 20th anniversary, Worldbex Services International (WSI), the organizer of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), proudly announces the return of MIAS this coming April 9 to 12, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, from 10 AM to 9 PM. Once again, the country’s premier automotive event will take center stage, bringing together leading automotive brands and placing innovation, performance, and mobility in the spotlight.

For over two decades, MIAS has continuously showcased the best of the automotive industry, underscoring its vital role in shaping modern society. Central to this progress is the industry’s unwavering commitment to mobility, constantly pushing boundaries through innovation, technology, and design. With the 2026 theme being “Powering Mobility”, MIAS honors this forward driven movement by celebrating the advancements that continue to propel the industry into the future.

Recognized as the leading automotive event in the Philippines, MIAS marked a milestone during its 20th anniversary in 2025, attracting over 170,900 visitors. The event featured more than 145 exhibitors across 33,000 sqm of exhibit space and showcased over 310 cars, trucks, and motorcycles throughout the weekend. Building on this momentum, WSI aims to elevate the MIAS experience in 2026 by delivering a larger platform, bolder showcases, and even more memorable moments for both industry stakeholders and automotive enthusiasts.

The main highlight of MIAS 2026 is the Mobility Marathon, a dynamic series of vehicle launches where participating brands will unveil their latest models and technological innovations to the public for the first time. Visitors will also have the opportunity to experience these vehicles firsthand at the Test Drive Avenue. Additional attractions include the Truck Zone, featuring trucks of all sizes; the Die-Cast Car Collection, showcasing rare and distinctive collectible die-cast models; and the Car Club Display, where passionate automotive communities from across the Philippines present their prized vehicles.

To further energize the event, MIAS will once again host signature competitions such as the MIAS Petron Custom and Classic Car Competition, in partnership with Petron, celebrating outstanding classic and customized vehicles across various categories. The event will also feature Ms. MIAS, a pageant highlighting representatives from participating automotive brands to showcase their beauty and grace.

With innovation, mobility, and passion at its core, the Manila International Auto Show is set to drive the automotive industry forward—bringing the future of mobility closer to the public than ever before. MIAS 2026 is happening from April 9 to 12, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. You can get your tickets now at https://manilaautoshow.com/

MIAS 2026 is an event organized by Worldbex Services International, and is for the benefit of the ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.