WINNING | BPI culture strategy strengthens talent edge

May 14, 2026
2:20PM PHT

Insider Spotlight

  • BPI is leveraging its workplace culture to strengthen talent retention and operational performance
  • The Ayala-led lender was the only Philippine bank included in the Best Workplaces™ in the Philippines 2026 list
  • Employee engagement and wellness programs are emerging as competitive advantages in banking

Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is intensifying investments in employee engagement and workplace culture as banks compete more aggressively for skilled talent amid accelerating digital transformation across the financial sector.

The Ayala-led lender was recognized as one of the Best Workplaces™ in the Philippines 2026 by Great Place to Work, making it the only bank in the country included in this year’s list.

The recognition placed BPI alongside major organizations across industries and ahead of global financial institutions such as Visa and American Express, as well as local institutions including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

“At BPI, we believe that when people feel valued and supported, they are empowered to do their best work,” said Gina Eala, chief human resources officer of BPI. 

“This recognition reflects the everyday experiences of our employees and affirms our commitment to building a workplace where everyone can grow and thrive.”

The bank said in a company release that the recognition was based on employee feedback covering trust and workplace experience, with 94 percent of employees saying they are proud to tell others they work at BPI, while 88 percent consider the bank a great place to work. BPI added that its people-first strategy is helping drive both employee satisfaction and business performance in an increasingly competitive industry landscape.

BPI Unibankers receive the Best Workplaces™ in the Philippines 2026 award during ceremonies held at Conrad Manila in Pasay City. | Contributed photo

With more than 22,000 employees nationwide, BPI continues to expand initiatives centered on professional growth, well-being, and flexible work arrangements through its MORE in BPI employee value proposition. The bank also reported a 95% employee engagement rate, reflecting what it described as a high-trust workplace culture.

Beyond traditional employee benefits, BPI has strengthened wellness initiatives through its BPI Well framework, which integrates physical, mental, financial, and social support programs. 

These include its Cancer Care Leave Program, Leave Donation Program, mental health services through MindYou, and financial assistance initiatives for employees and their families.

As competition for top banking and technology talent intensifies, analysts said workplace recognition and engagement metrics are becoming increasingly important indicators of organizational resilience and long-term growth potential. —Princess Daisy C. Ominga | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma

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