Ana Aboitiz Delgado becomes first woman to lead Philippines' bankers association

The UnionBank CEO and President assumes leadership as banks navigate AI and digital shift.

Ana Aboitiz Delgado, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of UnionBank, has been elected President of the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) for the 2026–2027 term, becoming the first woman to lead the nearly 80‑year‑old organisation.

Delgado assumes the role as Philippine banks navigate rapid digitalisation, growing artificial intelligence adoption, and interconnected operational and geopolitical risks.

She has served as UnionBank’s President and CEO since January 2025, after more than 20 years with the bank, leading digital transformation, consumer finance, institutional and SME banking, and customer experience initiatives.

In a press release, Delgado said the rise of digitalisation and AI brings cross-border risks, underscoring BAP’s role in setting standards and maintaining trust in the financial system.