The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) is the country’s premier development financing institution, playing a critical role in accelerating inclusive economic growth and supporting national development priorities. Headquartered in Makati City, DBP operates under the policy direction of the Philippine government and the Department of Finance. It is a government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) and a key player in infrastructure financing, sustainable development, and financial inclusion.
Core Business and Services
As a development bank, DBP’s primary mandate is to provide banking services focused on:
- Infrastructure development (transportation, logistics, water supply, energy)
- Environmentally sustainable projects
- Social services (healthcare, housing, education)
- Support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)
- Agricultural and fisheries development
- Deposit and remittance services for public and private institutions
- Project finance and investment banking services
DBP tailors its financial products to sectors that have strategic importance to the country’s economic and social development.
Financial Performance and Assets
DBP remains one of the largest banks in the Philippines by assets and lending portfolio. As of end-2023:
- Total Assets: PHP 1.1 trillion
- Net Income: PHP 5.7 billion, reflecting strong profitability from loan portfolio expansion and operational efficiency
- Loan Portfolio: Over PHP 500 billion, with over 50% dedicated to priority development sectors
- Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR): 14.9%, exceeding the BSP’s minimum requirement
These figures highlight DBP’s fiscal robustness and adherence to prudent banking practices.
Sectoral Lending Highlights
DBP supports high-impact programs across strategic sectors:
- Infrastructure and Logistics: PHP 226 billion in approved loans for roads, bridges, seaports, and airports
- Environment and Climate Resilience: Over PHP 30 billion allocated to green financing, including renewable energy and water systems
- Healthcare and Education: Funded construction of over 180 hospitals, clinics, and school facilities nationwide
- MSME and Agriculture Support: Disbursed PHP 45 billion in loans to farmers, fisherfolk, and agripreneurs through tailored financing schemes
National Development Initiatives
DBP aligns its services with the government’s economic blueprint and development goals:
- Build Better More (BBM) Infrastructure Program
- National Government’s Digitalization and Financial Inclusion Agenda
- Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Frameworks
The bank has partnered with national agencies, local government units, and international institutions to fund and implement these programs.
Market Reach and Accessibility
With a nationwide presence, DBP operates:
- 147 Branches and Lending Centers across all regions
- Over 500 ATMs and access points for public sector disbursements and remittance services
- Digital banking solutions tailored for institutional clients and cooperatives
Its outreach ensures that underserved regions and priority development areas have access to essential banking and financing services.
Strategic Partnerships
DBP collaborates with multilateral institutions such as:
- Asian Development Bank (ADB)
- World Bank
- Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
These partnerships enable blended finance programs and co-financing arrangements that reduce risk and enhance access to capital for development projects.
Certifications and Compliance
As a government financial institution, DBP is fully compliant with regulatory and governance standards:
- Licensed by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)
- Audited by the Commission on Audit (COA)
- ISO 9001:2015 Certified for its Quality Management System
- Regular disclosure and compliance with Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG)
Sustainability and ESG Commitment
DBP is a pioneer in green finance and sustainable banking:
- Green Financing Program: Dedicated window for renewable energy, eco-tourism, solid waste management, and sustainable transport
- ESG Integration: Environmental and social safeguards embedded in credit evaluation
- Sustainability Reporting: Annual disclosures align with international sustainability frameworks
Recognition and Awards
- 2022 ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard Awardee
- Top GOCC Performer for Financial Viability by GCG
- Most Outstanding Government Bank by various industry bodies for innovation in infrastructure and social impact financing
Future Outlook
DBP continues to play a transformative role in the Philippines’ recovery and growth journey. Strategic plans include:
- Increasing infrastructure and logistics lending to PHP 300 billion by 2025
- Expanding digital banking capabilities to enhance customer accessibility
- Launching more targeted financing schemes for women, indigenous communities, and climate-sensitive enterprises
The Development Bank of the Philippines is not only a financial institution—it is an enabler of equitable development, inclusive growth, and national transformation.
