The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) extended regulatory relief to financial institutions and their clients to counter rising energy prices and supply constraints caused by Middle East geopolitical tensions.
The BSP’s Monetary Board approved the measures on April 8, 2026 following the declaration of a State of National Energy Emergency on March 24.
The BSP said it aims to support lending activity and borrower recovery through these temporary provisions.
Under the new guidelines, BSP-supervised financial institutions (BSFIs) may grant affected borrowers a grace period of up to 6 months for loan payments. Agricultural loan payments may be deferred for up to 1 year based on bank assessments.
The BSP said it will also allow institutions to exclude loans to affected borrowers from past due and non-performing classifications for up to one year. Banks should follow specific notification and reporting requirements to qualify for this exclusion.
It said BSFIs should exercise prudent judgment and ensure relief only reaches borrowers whose repayment capacity was materially affected by the energy emergency. The regulator said the application of these measures should remain targeted, proportionate and consistent with safe and sound banking practices.
To further assist consumers and businesses, the BSP urged banks to temporarily suspend fees on online platforms and e-money services.
This includes InstaPay and PESONet electronic fund transfers. The regulator noted that lower-cost digital transactions reduce the need for transportation to physical branches during the energy crisis.
The BSP said it remains committed to promoting financial stability and consumer protection while maintaining the overall health of the financial system during the emergency.
