Bank Ownership & Regulation in the Philippines
Ownership Rules
Foreign Ownership
• Foreigners (individuals/non-bank corporations): up to 40% of voting shares.
• Foreign banks: can own up to 100% (RA 10641).
• Citizenship rules apply based on controlling shareholders.
Filipino Ownership
• Limit also applies: 40% for individuals or domestic corporations.
• Family or related groups must disclose ownership if related within 4th degree.
Bank Directors & Officers
• Must have 5 to 15 directors (up to 21 if merged banks).
• At least 2 independent directors (not part of bank or its affiliates).
• Foreigners can be directors based on foreign shareholdings.
• Public officials can’t be bank officers (with limited exceptions).
Qualifications:
• BSP checks for fitness (integrity, education, experience).
Regulations to Ensure Bank Safety
1. BSP sets minimum capital-to-risk ratio.
2. Limits loans to officers & insiders (DOSRI).
3. Controls collateral values.
4. Sets limits for unsecured loans and loan terms.
5. Restricts dividends if:
o No net profits.
o Bank owes BSP or lacks liquidity.
o Major violations exist.
Ownership of Real Property
• Banks can buy land for business use, but total investment is limited to 50% of capital.
• Land acquired due to unpaid debts must be sold within 5 years.
Loans from BSP
• BSP may lend short-term (7 days) without collateral.
• Emergency loans (up to 50% of deposits) may be granted with approval.
🛠 Conservatorship (Sec. 29, NCBA)
• BSP appoints a conservator if a bank is illiquid or poorly managed.
• Conservator takes over management to save the bank.
• Limited to 1 year.
Receivership & Liquidation (Sec. 30, NCBA)
When is a Bank Closed?
• Can't pay debts.
• Has too few assets.
• Will cause losses to depositors.
• Disobeys a cease and desist order with fraud.
Receiver: PDIC
What Happens:
1. Bank is closed—no rehab allowed.
2. Court cases against the bank are suspended.
3. Officers/stockholders lose their powers.
4. Assets are frozen—no garnishment/attachment.
5. Employees are automatically terminated.
6. Contracts can be cancelled if bad for the bank.
Judicial Review
• Only majority stockholders can question closure.
• Must file within 10 days.
• Grounds: Grave abuse of discretion.