The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas joined its regional counterparts in reaffirming a shared commitment to stronger financial integration and resilience across the Asia-Pacific, as leaders convened at the 69th Deputies’ and Related Meetings of the Executives’ Meeting of East Asia-Pacific Central Banks held from December 3 to 5, 2025 in Seoul, South Korea.
The high-level meetings highlighted a common priority among central banks to reinforce cooperation at a time of heightened global uncertainty, rapid digital transformation, and evolving financial risks. Discussions centered on enhancing cross-border financial linkages, strengthening regional safety nets, and ensuring that financial systems remain stable while embracing innovation.
Deputy Director General Ye Liu (People’s Bank of China), Assistant Governor Karen Silk (Reserve Bank of New Zealand), Deputy Governor Marzunisham Omar (Bank Negara Malaysia), Deputy Governor Juda Agung (Bank Indonesia), Economic Adviser Hyun Song Shin (Bank for International Settlements), Deputy Governor Woong Kim (Bank of Korea), Assistant Governor Seiichi Shimizu (Bank of Japan), Director Beth Anne Wilson (Federal Reserve Board), Deputy Governor Roong Mallikamas (Bank of Thailand), Deputy Managing Director Jacqueline Loh, and Deputy Governor Zeno Ronald Abenoja (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas). Photo courtesy of the Bank of Korea.
Participants emphasized the importance of robust regulatory and supervisory frameworks that can adapt to shifting market conditions without stifling growth. The agenda also reflected EMEAP’s long-standing focus on promoting sustainable financial development, safeguarding monetary and financial stability, and supporting innovation that can improve efficiency and inclusion across member economies.
The BSP delegation was led by Deputy Governor Zeno Ronald R. Abenoja, underscoring the Philippines’ active role in shaping regional policy dialogue. BSP officials echoed the view that closer coordination among Asia-Pacific central banks is essential to manage shared challenges, from capital flow volatility to the systemic implications of new financial technologies.
As Asia-Pacific economies continue to serve as key drivers of global growth, the outcomes of the EMEAP meetings signal a collective resolve to deepen integration while maintaining resilience. For the BSP and its peers, the message from Seoul was clear: regional cooperation remains a critical pillar in navigating a complex and fast-changing financial landscape.
