BDO Empowers Filipino Riders and Fuels Clean Energy Shift
In a significant move to bolster economic mobility and environmental sustainability, BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO) has launched two major initiatives aimed at supporting Filipino workers and advancing the country's energy infrastructure. These efforts highlight the bank's commitment to fostering inclusive growth and a greener future.
Microfinance Solutions for Motorcycle Riders
Recognizing the vital role of motorcycle riders in the Philippine economy, BDO has partnered with Unistar Credit and Finance Corporation to provide accessible microfinance solutions. This collaboration aims to assist 68,409 workers in acquiring motorcycles for delivery, logistics, and transport services, enabling them to enhance their livelihoods.
Through Unistar's retail brand, Transcycle, which operates 280 branches nationwide, these units are being distributed with a strong focus on underserved regions. Notably, 55% of the branches are located in Visayas and Mindanao, areas where access to credit has historically been limited.
Matthew Siy Cha, CEO of Unistar Credit and Finance Corporation, emphasized, "For many riders, owning a motorcycle brings a unique sense of freedom, independence, and mobility, while opening doors to better income and daily opportunities. Being able to support these journeys is what makes our work truly meaningful, especially for riders and families across Visayas and Mindanao."
This initiative extends beyond individual benefits, creating a ripple effect that boosts micro and small businesses through more efficient delivery services and supports local communities with improved access to goods.
BDO's ASEAN Sustainability Bond Success
Supporting these efforts is BDO's successful issuance of its fifth Peso-denominated ASEAN Sustainability Bond, which raised P100 billion—twenty times oversubscribed from the original P5 billion offer. The bond saw robust participation from both retail and institutional investors, leading to an early close of the offer period on January 16, 2026.
Since January 2022, BDO has raised an aggregate of P386.7 billion through sustainability bonds, demonstrating strong investor confidence in the bank's green initiatives.
Charles M. Rodriguez, BDO's Executive Vice President and Head of Institutional Banking Group, stated, "We believe that access to financial services is essential for economic empowerment. Through BDO's ASEAN Sustainability Bond, we are helping Filipinos gain the financial tools they need to build sustainable livelihoods."
This financial instrument underscores BDO's role in driving social impact and economic growth, aligning with the transition toward a low-carbon economy.
Financing the Clean Energy Transition
In parallel, BDO has anchored a P50-billion financing deal to support Prime Infra's acquisition of a 60% controlling stake in the gas assets of First Gen Corporation (FGen). This landmark transaction is one of the Philippines' most significant energy sector deals in recent years, aimed at enhancing the country's power resilience and clean energy capabilities.
BDO financed 60% of the total loan facility under a 10-year term, with BDO Capital & Investment Corporation serving as Mandated Lead Arranger and BDO Trust Investments Group acting as Facility Agent and Collateral Trustee.
Ed V. Francisco, President of BDO Capital, commented, "This landmark deal highlights BDO's commitment to providing strategic financing solutions for critical infrastructure—projects that power national development and shape the Philippines' evolving energy landscape."
The acquisition includes the Clean Energy Complex in Batangas, which contributes over 2,000 megawatts of generation capacity. This facility plays a crucial role in helping the Philippines achieve its renewable energy targets of 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040, as outlined in the Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050.
Guillaume Lucci, President and CEO of Prime Infra, added, "BDO's role in Prime Infra's investment supports our broader push to scale the country's natural gas infrastructure. These investments are essential in strengthening energy security and supporting the Philippines' transition to a cleaner and more reliable power system."
Together, these initiatives showcase BDO's multifaceted approach to driving progress—empowering individuals through financial inclusion while investing in sustainable infrastructure for a brighter, more equitable future.
