Delgado named BAP’s first female president

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March 19, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines —  The Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) has elected Ana Aboitiz Delgado, president and CEO of Union Bank of the Philippines, as its president for the 2026 to 2027 term, marking the first time a woman will lead the influential banking group in its nearly 80-year history.

Her appointment comes as the banking industry navigates a more complex operating environment shaped by rapid digitalization, the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and rising geopolitical and operational risks.

“As we accelerate digitalization and unlock the potential of AI, we also face a next generation of risks that extend beyond individual institutions and national borders. These risks are further compounded by the economic impact arising from geopolitical uncertainty,” Delgado said in a statement.

In outlining her priorities, Delgado emphasized the broader role of banks in driving economic progress.

“What excites me most is that as bankers, ours is an industry that has the ability to uplift lives and fuel economic progress by increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of banking services,” Delgado said.

She noted that the evolving risk landscape requires stronger coordination within the industry and with regulators.

“So together, they really underscore the importance of being peaceful in advancing industry- wide standards and deepening collaboration with each other, the central bank and the communities we serve. So that trust and confidence in the financial system is not only preserved, but is strengthened,” she added.

Delgado succeeds Bank of the Philippine Islands president and CEO Jose Teodoro Limcaoco, who completed his three-year term after being elected in 2023. He was honored during the association’s annual reception, which also marked the transition to a new set of officers.

Under Limcaoco’s leadership, the BAP pushed key initiatives including efforts to combat financial scams and cybercrime, as well as support for the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act.

The group also strengthened regional cooperation through the ASEAN Bankers Association and worked to improve the efficiency and connectivity of industry platforms to support the continued rise in digital transactions.