BDO’s green push surpasses ₱1 trillion in sustainable financing

BDO Unibank Inc. has channeled over ₱1.04 trillion into sustainable projects since the launch of its Sustainable Finance Program in 2010—solidifying its role as a top funder of clean energy and inclusive growth in the Philippines.

Why it matters: 

As climate change intensifies and energy security becomes more urgent, BDO is helping reshape the national infrastructure landscape by backing large-scale renewable energy, energy storage, water, and transport projects. 

The bank’s support not only accelerates the shift to clean energy but also promotes climate resilience and economic inclusivity.

Energizing a sustainable future: SMGP’s BESS facilities ensure round-the-clock clean energy, powering communities even beyond daylight hours./ Photo from BDO

Driving the news:

BDO is the anchor lender of the ₱150-billion syndicated term loan facility for San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp.’s (SMGP) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), touted as one of the world’s largest. 

SMGP’s 32 BESS facilities nationwide deliver a combined capacity of 1,000 MWh—stabilizing renewable energy output and strengthening grid reliability.

“Championing sustainable infrastructure is more than financing,” said Charles M. Rodriguez, BDO EVP and head of institutional banking group. “It’s about laying the groundwork for a sustainable and climate-resilient future.”

 Laying the foundation for a greener nation: Workers install solar panels at the MTerra Solar site for a more reliable and resilient energy infrastructure./ Photo from BDO

Key projects:

  • Citicore Solar Batangas 1:BDO financed this 197-MW peak capacity project by Citicore Renewable Energy Corp., which will power around 158,000 households. The project includes AgroSolar—an initiative enabling solar generation to coexist with agriculture.

  • MTerra Solar:BDO also led the funding for MTerra Solar, the world’s largest integrated solar and battery facility covering 3,500 hectares across Nueva Ecija and Bulacan. This MWp solar plant with 4,500 MWh of battery storage will power 2.4 million homes.

    • BDO acted as the biggest lender, sole mandated lead arranger and bookrunner, and served as facility agent, security trustee, and main account bank for the project.

What they’re saying:

Michelle Patricia Cillan, FVP and Head of BDO’s ESG Desk, said during the Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency Conference:

“Energy efficiency is clearly a pathway to a greener portfolio. Understanding client business models helps unlock opportunities for financing.”

Between the lines:

BDO’s green financing doesn’t stop at mega projects. The bank continues to support green buildings, solar rooftop systems, and resource-efficient infrastructure that help clients lower emissions and improve operations.

Zoom out:

BDO’s initiatives are governed by its Sustainable Finance Framework, the most comprehensive in the country. It covers 29 certified categories under Green, Blue, Social, and Gender financing—validated by Morningstar Sustainalytics. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma

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