Iloilo: The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Tuesday recognized 10 partner stakeholders supportive of its mandates on price and financial stability, as well as safe, efficient payments and settlement systems. Monetary Board Member and former BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno, in his keynote address, said the awardees were recognized for their commitment, innovation, and service to the Filipino people.

According to Philippines News Agency, the “Outstanding BSP Stakeholders Appreciation Ceremony (OBSAC) affirms that nation-building is never the work of just a single organization. It is a shared undertaking made possible by enduring partnerships, which, to me, are among the true foundations of progress,” Diokno stated. The awardees included Card Bank, Inc. – Roxas branch, Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) Dumaguete and Tacloban branches, cash operations unit of LBP Iloilo, and the Roxas and Cebu Fuente Osme±a Center branches of Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company for the BSP-supervised financial institutions.

Talisay City from Negros Occidental was recognized for the local government category, while the Cebu Bankers Club, Tacloban Bankers Association, Inc., and Perpetual Help Community Cooperative were honored under the industry, associations, and organizations category. “These are proofs of public duty in action — initiatives carried out not only by the government but also made real by stakeholders. Our awardees today remind us that strong foundations are built in everyday places,” Diokno added.

Meanwhile, BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat emphasized that the gathering was not only about giving awards but “celebrating community and partnership.” She stated, “Each of you plays a part in making finance more meaningful for Filipinos. Today, we honor your contribution and draw inspiration from your stories. You remind us that inclusion is possible when we work together.”

Following the stakeholders’ recognition, Diokno unveiled his book entitled “Leading the BSP in the Pandemic.” He mentioned it was fitting to hold the book launch in Iloilo, given its significant role during the pandemic. “This province sets a high standard among LGUs for its swift and proactive Covid response efforts,” he noted. The book provides a detailed narrative of the extraordinary measures undertaken under his leadership to uphold the country’s economic and financial stability.