Ayala Corporation (Ayala), one of the Philippines’ oldest and largest conglomerates, has strengthened its financial footing by securing a US$200 million long-term loan facility from the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank).
Image Credit: Rolly Barayang
In a press release, the company stated that the loan will support Ayala’s ongoing investments in high-growth sectors, including technology and payments, healthcare, logistics, and mobility, as the corporation pursues a forward-looking strategy for growth and diversification.
The loan agreement, signed last September, highlights a relationship between Ayala and Metrobank that spans more than three decades.
Key signatories included Ayala Corporation’s Chief Finance Officer Alberto de Larrazabal, Treasurer Estelito Biacora, Metrobank Head of Institutional Banking Sector Mary Mylene Caparas, and Metrobank Head of Large Corporates Maria Elena Trinidad.
The partnership marks another milestone in the company’s financial strategy, reflecting its commitment to allocate capital strategically and strengthen its portfolio in industries poised to drive the next phase of Philippine economic growth. The loan will be directed toward Ayala’s emerging portfolios, which are critical to building resilience in a fast-evolving market landscape.
Ayala’s strategic focus on high-growth sectors
Ayala Corporation has been actively expanding into sectors that align with the future demands of both consumers and businesses in the country. The infusion of funds from Metrobank will help the company sharpen its portfolio by investing in technology and payment solutions, which are critical for the growing digital economy.
In addition, the company aims to enhance its footprint in healthcare, logistics, and mobility — areas that have shown significant potential for development amid the evolving needs of the Philippine market.
The investment in healthcare, for instance, supports the company’s ongoing commitment to improving accessibility and quality of medical services in the country, an area with strong demand in a post-pandemic environment.
In logistics and mobility, the corporation focuses on initiatives that aim to streamline supply chains and address congestion issues, which are vital for economic productivity.
“This loan agreement with Metrobank will support our efforts to sharpen our portfolio and allocate capital to clear business winners,” said Albert de Larrazabal, Chief Finance Officer of Ayala Corporation. “We are glad to partner with Metrobank, an institution that has been working with us for over 30 years, supporting our purpose of building businesses that enable people to thrive.”
Metrobank’s enduring partnership with Ayala
Metrobank, one of the country’s largest and most trusted banks, has been a reliable financial partner for the company and its subsidiaries, backing a range of projects from real estate to renewable energy.
This latest loan reaffirms Metrobank’s commitment to supporting Ayala’s growth initiatives, which align with the bank’s mission of enabling economic and social development in the Philippines.
“We have always been their proud partner because we share their mission of enabling individuals and businesses in the country,” said Mary Mylene Caparas, Metrobank Institutional Banking Sector Head.
“This deal is a testament to our decades-long support of the Ayala Group’s growth aspirations, building businesses that transform industries, challenge the status quo, and bring innovations that contribute to the Philippines’ social and economic development goals, all while being a standard bearer for good corporate governance,” she added.
Metrobank was recently recognized with a Gold Stevies at the 2024 International Business Awards for its ‘Grow With Metrobank’ campaign, which tells the stories of growth from customers’ and Metrobankers’ perspectives.
Supporting the Philippine economy through innovation and resilience
Ayala Corporation’s strategic investments, supported by Metrobank’s financial backing, are expected to contribute significantly to the broader Philippine economy. By focusing on technology, healthcare, logistics, and mobility, Ayala is positioning itself as a leader in sectors crucial to the country’s future economic resilience and growth.
For instance, investments in the technology and payments sectors can improve financial inclusion and accessibility, enhancing digital infrastructure across the Philippines.
In healthcare, Ayala’s focus on expanding services could lead to improved medical access for underserved communities.
Similarly, Ayala’s ventures in logistics and mobility address some of the pressing issues facing urban areas, such as traffic congestion and supply chain inefficiencies, directly impacting economic productivity.
A long-term vision for sustainable growth
This loan marks a strategic step for Ayala as it navigates an increasingly competitive market landscape, characterized by rapid technological change and shifting consumer needs.
The corporation’s diversified approach ensures it can adapt to these changes while continuing to generate value for its stakeholders. Meanwhile, Metrobank’s role as a long-term financial partner highlights the importance of stable, cooperative relationships in realizing long-term growth goals.
Ayala’s ability to attract significant financing underscores confidence in its strategy and its commitment to sustainability, good governance, and innovation — qualities that have defined the company for generations.
As Ayala and Metrobank deepen their partnership, both institutions continue to play a critical role in fostering sustainable economic progress in the Philippines.
With this fresh infusion of capital, Ayala is well-positioned to continue its mission of building businesses that empower individuals and communities, driving both corporate and national growth in an increasingly interconnected and digital world.