The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) has named Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Layug-Go as its next president and CEO, succeeding Jose Teodoro “TG” Limcaoco, who will step down after six years leading the Ayala-led bank.
The leadership transition, approved by BPI’s board of directors, will take effect on April 26, 2027, following the bank’s annual stockholders’ meeting and subject to regulatory approvals.
Go, currently BPI executive vice president and head of Consumer Banking, will take over a bank that expanded its digital services, modernized its technology infrastructure, and strengthened its cybersecurity capabilities during Limcaoco’s term, which began in 2021.
Under Limcaoco, BPI grew its customer base to more than 19 million nationwide and expanded its workforce to over 23,000 employees.
The bank also accelerated the development of digital-first banking services as it modernized its systems and integrated digital channels into its operations.
The bank’s digital transformation extended to its distribution network through initiatives such as Agency Banking, which enabled BPI to reach customers beyond its traditional branch network. The program formed part of its broader financial inclusion efforts.
BPI also invested in cybersecurity and technology infrastructure while expanding its digital banking capabilities. These initiatives supported the bank’s efforts to serve a growing customer base as more Filipinos adopted digital financial services.
Under Go, BPI is expected to continue these initiatives, with her experience in consumer banking and digital innovation providing a foundation for further development of retail banking services.
As head of Consumer Banking, Go has overseen the expansion of BPI’s retail customer base, the modernization of its nationwide distribution network, and the integration of physical and digital banking channels.
She has also led the adoption of artificial intelligence-enabled capabilities to improve banking operations and customer experience.
Go has spent 23 years at BPI, including a stint as president of BPI Family Savings Bank, where she led its transformation and integration into the parent bank. Before joining BPI, she held leadership positions at Citibank, Ayala Land, and Procter & Gamble.
A certified public accountant, Go topped the 1991 CPA Licensure Examination and earned an MBA with honors from Harvard Business School.
Limcaoco will remain on BPI’s board after the transition and assume senior governance positions in other major Ayala Group companies. In 2026, he was named Best Bank CEO in the Philippines by The Asian Banker.
BPI chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala said the leadership change comes as the Philippine consumer market continues to develop.
“Amidst some volatility in the global and domestic environment, there are notable opportunities, particularly as the Filipino consumer sector grows, becomes more sophisticated, and seeks a trusted partner in achieving financial stability and success,” he said.
