Thrift Banks Eye AI, Digital Banking at 52nd Annual Convention

The Chamber of Thrift Banks (CTB) opened its 52nd Annual Convention on July 15 in Makati City, prioritizing the integration of artificial intelligence and digital services alongside traditional banking^{. The event gathered banking executives, regulators, and technology providers to discuss sector development and evolving customer expectations.}

Role of Artificial Intelligence in Banking

Held under the theme “CTB@52: Staying True to Customer Relevance Through the Nexus of Traditional, Digital, and Artificial Intelligence,” the convention centered on emerging financial technology^{. Convention Chairman Manuel G. Santiago, Jr. stated that artificial intelligence offers opportunities to automate routine tasks, improve compliance, and strengthen risk management. Santiago added that implementing AI allows bank personnel to focus more effectively on direct customer service.}

CTB President Jaime Valentin L. Araneta noted that thrift banks are positioned to enter the next stage of banking transformation as the digital economy expands^{. According to CTB data, over half of monthly retail transactions in the Philippines are now conducted digitally, with automated clearing houses InstaPay and PESONet processing P24.7 trillion in transactions last year.}

Sector Growth and Convention Agenda

The thrift banking sector reported total assets of P1.38 trillion as of Dec. 31, 2025, representing a 25 percent increase from the previous year. Core lending rose 26 percent to P977.32 billion, deposit liabilities reached P1.03 trillion, and the capital adequacy ratio stood at 17.17 percent.

The convention schedule includes panel discussions on artificial intelligence, banking technology, cybersecurity, digital identity, and anti-money laundering solutions^{. Key speakers include Department of Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor Lyn I. Javier, and Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation President Roberto B. Tan.}

Regional Frameworks and Organization Profile

Araneta stated that regional digital initiatives, such as the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement and Project Nexus, are expected to provide opportunities for thrift banks serving overseas Filipinos^.

Originally organized in 1974, the CTB currently serves as the umbrella organization for 36 member-banks operating more than 3,000 branches and micro-banking offices nationwide^.

This article is published on BitPinas: Thrift Banks Eye AI, Digital Banking at 52nd Annual Convention

What else is happening in Crypto Philippines and beyond?