This move reinforces the bank’s commitment to embedding sustainability at the core of its operations and advancing a low-carbon, resilient financial system in the Philippines.
The Alliance for Green Commercial Banks serves as a global platform that connects commercial banks in emerging markets with leading financial institutions and sustainability experts.
Managed by the IFC, the initiative promotes green finance by fostering peer-to-peer learning, innovation, and knowledge exchange. Its first regional chapter was launched in Asia, anchored by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. Founding cornerstone members include Bank of China (Hong Kong), Citi, Crédit Agricole CIB, HSBC, and Standard Chartered.
“Security Bank is proud to be the first Philippine bank to join the Alliance for Green Commercial Banks,” Eduardo Olbes, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Security Bank, said in a statement. “This membership aligns with our vision to be best-in-class in sustainable banking in the Philippines and provides us access to global expertise that will help drive positive change within the industry.”
In March 2025, Security Bank took part in the Alliance’s Excellence in Green Commercial Banking Immersion Lab in Hong Kong, the inaugural flagship event which gathered banks from the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam to promote regional collaboration in sustainable finance.
Carlos Serrano, head of the Alliance secretariat, welcomed Security Bank’s entry: “This is a powerful commitment from the Philippine banking sector. Security Bank’s leadership sends a strong message that local banks are ready to play a key role in shaping a greener financial future across the region.” —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma