In a significant move for the nation's economic policy-making, Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go officially joined the Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Thursday, January 8, 2026. This appointment marks a key shift in the leadership of the country's central bank governing body.
Oath-Taking at the BSP Headquarters
The swearing-in ceremony was held at the central bank's head office in Manila. BSP Governor and Monetary Board Chairman Eli M. Remolona Jr. personally administered the oath of office to Secretary Go. This appointment follows the official designation made by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who named Go as the Cabinet's representative to the powerful seven-member policy-making board.
A Change in the Board's Composition
Secretary Go assumes the seat previously held by Ralph G. Recto, who also once served as finance secretary and is currently the Executive Secretary. Go's entry brings his extensive experience in both government and the private sector directly into the heart of Philippine monetary policy.
The Monetary Board now comprises the following members alongside Chairman Remolona and Secretary Go:
- Benjamin E. Diokno
- Romeo L. Bernardo
- Rosalia V. De Leon
- Jose L. Querubin
- Walter C. Wassmer
Go's Background and Economic Expertise
Before his current role leading the Department of Finance, Frederick Go served as the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs. In that capacity, he was responsible for coordinating the implementation of economic policies across various key government agencies, giving him a broad, cross-departmental view of the nation's fiscal landscape.
His private sector pedigree is equally notable. He previously held the position of President and Chief Executive Officer at Robinsons Land Corporation and has occupied senior leadership roles across multiple industries, including property development, banking, and hospitality. This blend of high-level government coordination and robust corporate leadership is expected to inform his contributions to the BSP's Monetary Board.
The integration of the sitting Finance Secretary into the BSP Monetary Board is designed to ensure closer alignment between the government's fiscal strategy and the central bank's monetary policy. This move aims to foster a more cohesive and synchronized approach to navigating the Philippines' economic challenges and opportunities in the coming years.
