Unsung financial system stabilizer

At a period when the nation was experiencing rapid financial transformation, Rosalia V. de Leon was quietly at the forefront of keeping the momentum going as the former National Treasurer.

She is now a member of the policymaking Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) allowing the nation to continue tapping her expertise in financial management.

De Leon is now championing modernization, inclusivity and economic sustainability to maintain a robust financial system.

She was recently at the Mortgage Market Global Summit 2025 in Palawan, where she painted a bold picture of the financial landscape.

“Digitalization is eliminating inefficiencies, AI (artificial intelligence) is revolutionizing risk assessment, and expanded capital markets will unlock new opportunities for Filipinos,” De Leon said.

At the BSP, De Leon had advocated digital finance, enhancing access to credit and fortifying the country’s mortgage finance sector.

She employed government financial tools to make the condition conducive for majority of Filipinos to own a home.

Her push for a stronger mortgage-backed securities market promises to turn housing loans into tradable assets and seeks to free up capital for banks to extend more home loans to Filipinos.

She also supported strategic reserve requirement cuts to inject billions of pesos into the economy by lowering borrowing costs and making homeownership more attainable.

“Our goal is clear — more affordable financing, wider access to credit, and a financial system that works for all,” she emphasized.

Having served as head of the Bureau of the Treasury under three Philippine presidents, she played a critical role in crafting borrowing strategies that secured cost-effective financing for the country.

She introduced digital investment platforms, broadening financial participation for all Filipinos, and expanded capital markets to make investments more accessible.

World-class wiz

Her expertise also resonated on the global stage.

At the World Bank Group and the Asian Development Bank, she helped shape international financial policies, ensuring that developing nations including the Philippines remained competitive in the evolving financial ecosystem.

Beyond digital innovation, De Leon is also at the forefront of sustainable finance.

Under her leadership, the BSP is driving green bond initiatives, environmental, social and governance investments and climate-resilient housing finance.

“Sustainability is not just an option — it’s the future of responsible finance,” she asserted.

“We must align with global green initiatives while ensuring financial stability.”

Her push for sustainable finance is more than just a policy shift. It is a commitment to ensure the country’s financial system supports long-term economic and environmental resilience.

Her appointment to the Monetary Board by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is a recognition of her deep financial expertise and unwavering dedication to economic progress.

The Palace had cited her ability to craft effective borrowing strategies, implement credit enhancements, and drive policies that promote financial stability.

“I am profoundly honored to be entrusted with this prestigious role,” De Leon said.

“I recognize the significant impact my decisions in this role can have on the lives of our fellow Filipinos. I am committed to working towards financial stability, fostering growth, and contributing to the overall well-being of our nation.”

From managing sovereign debt to pioneering financial inclusion, De Leon has been considered among the key individuals who are responsible for a stronger financial system.

As the global economy evolves, she remains a steadfast leader, ensuring that the country’s financial system is not only resilient but primed for innovation and growth.