BPI highlights economic trends and investment opportunities in Central Luzon

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its Global Markets segment, recently convened business leaders from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Bataan, Incorporated (PCCI-Bataan), and retail investors for its first local economic briefing in the province on Central Luzon’s economic outlook and investment opportunities.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its Global Markets segment, recently convened business leaders from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Bataan, Incorporated (PCCI-Bataan), and retail investors for its first local economic briefing in the province on Central Luzon’s economic outlook and investment opportunities.

The briefing in Balanga, Bataan reinforces BPI’s role as a thought leader, advancing financial inclusion and empowering local economies through actionable insights, innovative solutions, and sustainable banking practices—pillars that have defined the Bank’s 175-year legacy.

As presented by BPI Lead Economist Jun Neri, the briefing last February 6 provided timely perspectives on the current state of local and global economies, as well as financial markets, and their impact to the Philippines. Meanwhile, the region’s growth drivers, policy directions, investment opportunities, and development priorities were discussed by Nerrisa Esguerra, Regional Director of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Region III.

“Economic growth is strongest when the public and private sectors move forward together,” said Dino Gasmen, BPI Treasurer and Head of Global Markets Group. “As we mark BPI’s 175th Anniversary this year, we reaffirm our role as a trusted treasury partner to businesses—providing not just financial solutions, but also delivering insights that help shape long-term, sustainable growth.”

The 2026 outlook indicates that Central Luzon is poised to remain a key growth engine of the Philippine economy, supported by easing inflation, stable employment, and strong momentum in manufacturing, tourism, and agri-industry. Major infrastructure projects and rising investments are strengthening connectivity and investor confidence, positioning the region as a critical national gateway. While risks from operating costs and climate exposure persist, continued focus on technology, talent, and resilience is likely to sustain broad-based growth.

The sessions also translated economic data and government policies into practical insights to support business growth and investment decisions, while emphasizing the importance of aligning private sector initiatives with national and regional development priorities.

DEPDev Region III also shared its assessment of macroeconomic trends, performance, and emerging growth areas in Bataan, demonstrating how current policies and development plans are fostering an environment that supports investments across the region.”

Product booths were also set up during the event, offering banking services such as cash management, deposits, loans, credit cards, and more—bringing clients closer to solutions that empower them to do more for both their business and personal needs. BPI representatives were onsite to explain various banking solutions and provide expert advice.