BSP chief highlights resilience at IMF meetings

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Gov. Eli M. Remolona Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to price stability, financial resilience, inclusion, and regional cooperation during the 2026 International Monetary Fund-World Bank Group Spring Meetings and related meetings in Washington, D.C.

The BSP said in a May 7 press release that Remolona underscored the need for pragmatic and well-calibrated policy responses in discussions with global investors, banks, and multilateral partners.

The central bank said such an approach has become more critical as geopolitical tensions and energy supply shocks continue to add uncertainty to the global economic outlook.

Remolona said the Philippine banking system remains resilient, supported by strong capital and liquidity buffers.

He also highlighted the BSP’s continuing push to advance financial health, with particular focus on protecting vulnerable sectors.

“As ASEAN Chair in 2026, the Philippines will prioritize capital market deepening, digital payments, regional financial safety nets and advancing financial health to strengthen financial stability, “ he added.

BSP officials also met with key stakeholders, including the US Department of the Treasury, the BIS Innovation Hub, credit rating agencies, and global banks.

The discussions covered global and regional developments, the Philippine economic outlook, and policy priorities as the country navigates a shifting external environment.

Remolona also engaged with the IMF Asia and Pacific Department on surveillance and risk assessments.

He also met with Her Majesty Queen Maxima of the Netherlands, United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Financial Health, to discuss progress on financial health initiatives in the Philippines and across the ASEAN region.

The IMF and World Bank Group said the 2026 Spring Meetings were held April 13–18 at their headquarters in Washington, D.C., bringing together policymakers for discussions on global development, the world economy, and financial markets.

The IMF separately said the 2026 meetings focused on how policymakers could respond to shifts in geopolitics, trade, and technology, as well as shocks from conflict in the Middle East and the need to unlock new sources of growth.