BPI Capital secures multiple awards for sustainable finance

The Bank of the Philippine Islands’ (BPI) investment banking arm, BPI Capital, won four awards at The Asset Triple A Sustainable Finance Awards 2024 in recognition of its contribution to the country’s sustainable development through its capital market issuances.

“Sustainable finance is a huge part of our growth strategy as it resonates with our vision of helping build a better Philippines – one family, one community at a time,” said Junie Veloso, BPI Capital President. “At BPI Capital, we aim to consistently drive positive impact for our clients and society by offering investment opportunities geared towards environmental, social, and economic value creation.”

BPI’s Reinforcing Inclusive Support for MSMEs (RISE) Bonds, a Php20.4 billion fixed-rate bond due this year, was named Best Social Bond. BPI Capital acted as the joint lead arranger and sole selling agent for the transaction, which was the largest bank issuance and the only ASEAN social bond in 2023. The net proceeds of this offer were used to provide loans to MSMEs affected by natural and/or health disasters.

ACEN Corporation, the energy firm under Ayala Group, also took home the Best Equity Deal award for its Php25 billion Perpetual Preferred Shares, in which BPI Capital acted as joint issue manager, joint lead underwriter, and bookrunner. The net proceeds of the offer will be used to refinance short-term bridge loans for eligible green project, including various solar and wind projects.

Meanwhile, BPI Capital was also involved in SM Prime Holdings’ Php33 billion Fixed Rate Bond, which won the Best Corporate Bond, and Aboitiz Equity Ventures’ Php17.54 billion Fixed Rate Bond, which was named Best Acquisition Financing. BPI Capital acted as joint lead underwriter and bookrunner for both deals.

“We aim to provide innovative and creative capital market solutions while being an effective conduit between institutional and retail clients, and the broader capital markets. Using our wide reach and extensive experience, we will continue to support industries which we believe are critical for the future development of the country,” Veloso added.

The Asset Triple A Sustainable Finance Awards recognizes trailblazing corporates and institutions, best deals, and individuals who are making a difference in promoting sustainable finance.