Press Release
May 08, 2025
The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) reaffirmed its commitment to consumer protection and financial cybercrime prevention by actively supporting the recently concluded National Cybercrime Summit 2025, organized by the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG).
BPI joins PNP-ACG and key partners at the National Cybercrime Summit 2025 to promote a more cyber-resilient Philippines. (Photo taken from PNP-ACG Official Facebook Page)
Held from April 7 to 8 at Camp Crame in Quezon City, the two-day summit was themed “Empowering Online Communities Towards a Cyber-Resilient Environment.” It brought together cybersecurity experts from the public and private sectors to discuss pressing issues such as digital privacy, online transaction regulation, and the responsible use of cryptocurrencies.
Representing BPI at the summit was Atty. Victorino Lazaro, Jr., head of the bank’s Cybercrime – Legal unit, who presented BPI’s strategic approach to cybersecurity. He highlighted the BPI CARES initiative, which provides clients with dedicated assistance in filing cybercrime-related cases with law enforcement agencies.
Lazaro also emphasized the importance of the recently enacted Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), which lays the groundwork for streamlined, industry-wide protocols that enhance coordination among financial institutions. The law plays a critical role in delivering stronger protection for consumers and faster resolution of cybercrime cases.
BPI’s presentation on financial cybercrime featured a module developed under its CyberAcademy program—an initiative aimed at promoting consistent terminology and shared understanding among law enforcement agencies. By standardizing knowledge and enhancing collaboration, the CyberAcademy equips authorities to respond more effectively to financial cybercrime incidents.
“Achieving a safer and more secure online environment requires more than just cutting-edge cybersecurity technology. It also demands strong collaboration between public institutions and private organizations. That’s why BPI is proud to support the PNP-ACG in this important initiative,” said Elena Torrijos, BPI Public Affairs and Communications Head.
(L-R): PCOL Andres Simbajon, PNP-ACG Deputy Director for Administration; PBGen Bernard Yang, PNP-ACG Acting Director; and Atty. Victorino Lazaro, Jr., BPI Cybercrime Legal Team Head. (Photo taken from PNP-ACG Official Facebook Page)
“Through cooperation, innovation, and a shared commitment to resilience, we can help create a cyber environment that enables security and growth for all,” Torrijos added.
By actively participating in the National Cybercrime Summit 2025 and working hand in hand with law enforcement, BPI continues to position itself as a trusted financial partner and an industry leader in cybersecurity advocacy.
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