In a powerful display of its unwavering commitment to empowering its clientele with critical insights for navigating the evolving economic landscape, Chinabank hosted its highly anticipated 2025 Economic Forum at the Makati Shangri-La.
The exclusive event, themed “Rising: Rooted in Strength, Growing in Adaptability,” served as a dynamic platform for business leaders and financial experts to dissect prevailing economic trends and chart a course for sustained growth in an increasingly complex global environment.
Organized by Chinabank’s Financial Markets Segment, the forum drew over 200 of the bank’s key clients, eager to glean valuable perspectives from a distinguished panel of speakers.
Finance Secretary Ralph Recto (center) flanked by Chinabank’s President and CEO Romeo Uyan Jr. and Chairman Hans Sy
The keynote address was delivered by none other than Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Ralph Recto, whose presence underscored the significance of the dialogue between the financial sector and the government in fostering national economic progress.
In his opening remarks, Chinabank President & CEO Romeo Uyan Jr. set the tone for the evening, emphasizing the inherent strength and adaptability of the Filipino spirit as the bedrock for future prosperity.
“At the heart of tonight’s discussion lies a powerful truth: the unwavering resilience of the Filipino people. Time and again, our nation has weathered storms with a spirit that refuses to be broken. It is this enduring strength, this uniquely Filipino adaptability, that allows us to not just survive, but to rise stronger amidst all the challenges,” Uyan Jr. asserted.
He further reinforced Chinabank’s enduring commitment to its stakeholders, assuring them of the bank’s steadfast support in their business endeavors. “We will be here for you whether you intend to embark on new business ventures or to expand your existing core franchises, just as we have been doing for the last 105 years. Chinabank. Steady. Stable. Rising. And always Focused on You,” Uyan Jr. declared, highlighting the bank’s century-long legacy of unwavering partnership.
At Chinabank Forum: Recto cites reforms, strong public-private trust
In his keynote address, Secretary Recto reciprocated the sentiment, acknowledging Chinabank as a robust ally in the nation’s economic journey. He underscored the fundamental role of trust in economic development, stating, “The economy, at its core, is a matter of trust. It is about the pact we make with each other: that when a Filipino dares to dream, there is a system strong enough to help him achieve it.”
The DOF Chief painted an optimistic picture of the Philippines’ current economic momentum, citing the government’s on-track fiscal consolidation efforts and the implementation of game-changing business reforms. “The Philippines is at its most promising economic momentum. We are one of the fastest-growing economies in the Asia-Pacific — not just when times are good, but even in the face of tough global challenges such as trade wars and high inflation and high interest rates,” Sec. Recto highlighted, noting the impressive average economic growth of 6% since 2022, with international organizations projecting continued growth above this mark in the coming years.
Looking ahead, Sec. Recto shared compelling insights into the nation’s bright prospects, including the anticipated credit rating upgrade to an A-rating before the end of the current administration.
He also pointed to the Philippines’ projected rise as the 13th largest consumer market globally by 2030, the burgeoning opportunities in public-private partnerships, and the ongoing implementation of growth-enhancing and business-friendly reforms aimed at bolstering economic competitiveness, generating more employment, and ultimately improving the lives of Filipinos.
“Because only then can we truly define our shared success — this means lifting 8 million more Filipinos out of the poverty line by the end of President Marcos, Jr.’s term. With strong partners like Chinabank, I am confident that we can get there — even sooner than expected,” Sec. Recto concluded, his words resonating with optimism and a shared vision for national progress.
Actionable strategies for navigating the economic horizon
The forum also featured an engaging panel discussion moderated by seasoned broadcast journalist Rico Hizon.
Industry luminaries, including SM Investments Corporation Group Economist Robert Dan Roces and COL Financial Chief Equity Strategist April Lee-Tan, joined Chinabank’s own experts, Treasurer and Treasury Group Head Rowel Salazar and Securities Research Director Rastine Mercado, to dissect the intricate interplay between global issues and their impact on the Philippine business sector, financial markets, and equities market. Their insightful analysis provided the audience with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Adding a personal touch to the forum, French Baker Inc. CEO Johnlu Koa engaged in an inspiring fireside chat with Chinabank Markets Sales Group Head Bernhard Tsai. Koa shared his entrepreneurial journey, offering invaluable strategies and practical advice to aspiring Filipino entrepreneurs in the audience, underscoring the spirit of resilience and adaptability championed throughout the event.
As the fourth largest private universal bank in the Philippines and a proud member of the SM Group, Chinabank remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering its customers. By hosting such insightful economic briefings, the bank aims to equip its clients with the strategic economic and market intelligence necessary to make informed financial decisions and successfully navigate the ever-evolving business landscape.
The 2025 Economic Forum served as a powerful testament to Chinabank’s role as a trusted partner in the growth and prosperity of its clients and the nation as a whole.