A new era has dawned at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) with the swearing-in of Zeno Ronald Abenoja as the new Deputy Governor of the Monetary and Economics Sector (MES) last May 19, 2025.
This appointment marks a pivotal moment for the nation’s economic stability, placing a seasoned expert at the helm of critical operations that steer the Philippine economy.
BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. welcoming new Deputy Governor Zeno Roland R. Abenoja.
Abenoja steps into a role previously held by the esteemed Francisco Dakila Jr., who retired earlier this year. The weight of this succession is not lost on the central bank, as Abenoja is now tasked with leading the BSP’s intricate operations related to monetary policy formulation, implementation, and assessment.
This encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including overseeing economic research and statistics, managing international monetary affairs and surveillance, and supervising loans and credit – all vital components in maintaining price stability and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Abenoja’s appointment garners endorsements from top economic leaders
The significance of Abenoja’s appointment is underscored by the resounding endorsements from the powerful Monetary Board (MB). BSP Governor and MB Chair Eli Remolona Jr. lauded the selection, stating, “The BSP is fortunate to have someone like Zeno, with his breadth of experience in economic policy and his depth of understanding in monetary economics.”
This sentiment highlights Abenoja’s extensive background and intellectual prowess, qualities essential for navigating the complex global and domestic economic landscapes.
Photo shows (from left) BSP Monetary Board Member (MBM) Benjamin E. Diokno, Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr., Deputy Governor (DG) Zeno Roland R. Abenoja, and MBM Rosalia V. De Leon during DG Abenoja’s oath-taking ceremony last May 19, 2025, at the BSP Head Office, Manila.
Monetary Board Member Rosalia de Leon offered a poignant tribute to Abenoja’s leadership style, remarking, “True leadership does not need to be loud to make an impact – nobody exemplifies this better than Zeno.”
This speaks volumes about Abenoja’s quiet yet profound influence, a testament to his dedication and mastery of his craft, as De Leon further elaborated, “Zeno stands as a strong example to future public servants of what can be achieved through quiet dedication and mastery of one’s craft.”
Another key endorsement came from MB member Benjamin Diokno, who brings a unique perspective as Abenoja’s former colleague at the Department of Finance. “Having served as my chief economist at the Department of Finance, DG Zeno appreciates the close link between monetary and fiscal policies,” Diokno stated.
This appreciation for the interconnectedness of monetary and fiscal policies is paramount, as effective coordination between these two pillars of economic governance is crucial for national development and resilience. Diokno further affirmed, “As head of MES, the sector is in good hands.”
Abenoja’s impressive career trajectory firmly establishes him as the ideal candidate for this demanding role. With over two decades of experience in economic policy and central banking, he has a proven track record of insightful contributions. Prior to this appointment, he served as Assistant Governor of the Monetary Policy Sub-Sector, gaining invaluable experience in the very heart of the BSP’s operations.
His prior roles as the head of the BSP Department of Economic Research, the Economic and Financial Learning Center, and as Senior Advisor to the Executive Director for the Southeast Asia Voting Group at the IMF further attest to his comprehensive understanding of both domestic and international economic dynamics.
BSP sees Abenoja shaping the nation’s economic future
Academically, Abenoja is equally distinguished, holding a Master of Arts in Economics from the University of the Philippines and a Master’s degree in Public Administration with a concentration in Economic Policy Management from Columbia University.
This blend of practical experience and robust academic grounding equips him with the intellectual framework necessary to lead the BSP’s monetary and economic initiatives effectively.
As Deputy Governor of the Monetary and Economics Sector, Zeno Ronald Abenoja’s role extends far beyond mere administrative oversight. He is now a key architect of the Philippines’ economic future, responsible for policies that directly impact inflation, interest rates, and the overall financial health of the nation.
His quiet dedication, deep expertise, and understanding of the critical linkages between various economic facets will be instrumental in guiding the BSP through evolving challenges and ensuring sustained stability and growth for the Filipino people.
The nation watches with anticipation as Abenoja embarks on this crucial chapter of public service, a chapter poised to make a significant and lasting impact.