BPI marks 173rd anniversary, celebrates cultural milestones in Cebu

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), on its 173rd anniversary, not only represents banking excellence but also the shared values of creativity, innovation, and dynamism, further cementing its cultural and economic significance in the country. 

“The Zobel de Ayala family’s stewardship of BPI, the first bank in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, reflects our steadfast commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. Since its founding in 1851 as El Banco Español Filipino de Isabel II, BPI has been a pioneer in the banking industry,” said Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Ayala Corporation and BPI Chairman.

On August 5, 2024, representatives from the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and BPI unveiled a marker declaring the building of BPI Cebu Main branch as an Important Cultural Property (ICP). In 1924, BPI opened its third oldest branch in Jakosalem Street. It relocated to a new building at the intersection of Magallanes and P. Burgos Streets in 1941. This historic building is now home to BPI Cebu Main branch and the BPI Museum Cebu.

“Today, as we unveil the ICP Marker of the BPI Cebu Main building and officially open the BPI Museum Cebu, we are not just looking back at our rich history—we are celebrating our shared journey with the community. The BPI Museum Cebu, inaugurated in 2011, stands as a beacon of our heritage, showcasing our significant contributions to Philippine banking history. Starting August 7, it will open its doors to the public, free of charge, as our gift to the Cebuanos for their unwavering support,” said TG Limcaoco, BPI President and CEO.

Still part of its anniversary celebration, the bank also opened the BPI Museum Cebu on August 5, 2024. The museum, spearheaded by then Branch Manager Carlos Apuhin, was inaugurated during BPI’s 160th anniversary in 2011. It houses a treasure trove of memorabilia and numismatics, showcasing BPI’s rich heritage and significant contributions to Philippine banking history.

“This is not just a celebration of the past; it is also a nod to the future, a place where art and culture converge to inspire generations to come. Cebu, with its vibrant artistic community and rich cultural heritage, serves as the perfect backdrop for such an endeavor,” said Carmina Marquez, BPI Foundation Executive Director. 

The BPI Museum Cebu is open to the public, free of charge, starting August 7, 2024, weekdays, from 10:00AM to 2:00PM.

BPI, the first bank in Southeast Asia, remains committed to being a reliable financial partner to Filipinos, helping build a better Philippines—one family, one community at a time.