The Philippine Bank of Communications (PBCOM) is marking its 87th anniversary with an expanded nationwide presence, the opening of its 100th branch and a change in leadership as it prepares for its next phase of growth.
The bank celebrated the milestone through a series of Client Appreciation Dinners held in Cebu, Davao, Manila and Zamboanga, recognising the continued support of its customers and business partners.
Under the theme “87 Years of Expanding Our Reach,” the celebrations highlighted PBCOM’s efforts to bring banking services to more communities while strengthening relationships with existing clients.
One of the bank’s major achievements this year was the inauguration of its 100th branch in Santiago City, Isabela, extending its presence beyond major urban centres.
John Cary Ong Takes Over as President and CEO
PBCOM’s anniversary celebration in Manila also marked a significant leadership transition, with John Cary L. Ong officially taking over as president and chief executive officer from Patricia May T. Siy.
Ong assumed the position on October 1, 2026, following Siy’s retirement at the end of September. Siy, who led the bank from 2015, remains involved in the institution as a member of its board of directors.
The transition follows more than a decade of institutional development under Siy’s leadership, during which PBCOM strengthened its operations, expanded its services and secured a Universal Banking licence.
The bank also earned consecutive placements on Forbes’ Asia’s Best Under A Billion list in 2024 and 2025. More recently, it was included among eight Philippine institutions featured in Forbes’ inaugural worldwide list of Top Performing Banks.
Ong said he was grateful for the opportunity to build on the institution’s legacy and expressed his commitment to strengthening relationships with customers while pursuing further growth.
The new chief executive brings extensive banking experience, having previously held senior positions in corporate banking, transaction banking, treasury and trade solutions.
Expansion Reaches 100 Branches Nationwide
PBCOM’s 100th branch in Santiago City represents another step in its strategy to extend financial services to more Filipinos.
The bank’s anniversary activities across Cebu, Davao, Manila and Zamboanga also demonstrated its intention to maintain closer connections with customers in different regions.
Its first major client appreciation event in Zamboanga was particularly significant, bringing together customers from its Zamboanga Veterans and Zamboanga Canelar branches.
The celebrations included the traditional Mid-Autumn Festival Dice Game, with prizes sponsored by S&R of the Lucio Co Group of Companies. A surprise car raffle was also held, with ALG Autoworks Inc. emerging as the winner in Zamboanga.
In Manila, qualified clients also participated in the bank’s Fuel Your Funds car raffle, which featured a BYD Tang DM-i as the grand prize. Angel’s Burger, International Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Davao Central Convenience Store were identified as the winners from Manila, Cebu and Davao, respectively.
Building on a Stronger Banking Foundation
PBCOM’s latest anniversary comes after several important developments in its corporate and financial position.
Regaining its Universal Banking licence strengthened its ability to expand its financial services, while its recognition in international banking rankings added to its profile within the industry.
The leadership change also comes at a time when Philippine banks face growing competition, digital transformation demands and changing customer expectations.
With Ong now leading the institution, PBCOM is expected to build on its existing banking capabilities while pursuing opportunities to expand its customer base and improve its services.
The bank’s 87th anniversary therefore represents more than a celebration of its history. Its 100th branch milestone and leadership transition signal an effort to position the institution for continued expansion.
As PBCOM looks toward its next chapter, its challenge will be to sustain growth, strengthen customer confidence and deliver financial services that support businesses and communities across the Philippines.
