BDO Unibank Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Nestor Tan has been elected as the first Filipino head of the International Monetary Conference (IMC) for 2025-2026.

In a statement on Tuesday, Tan was chosen as the IMC president during the organization's recent annual meeting in Brussels, Belgium.

"His election reflects his extensive expertise in banking and finance and affirms his leadership standing in the global banking community," BDO said.

IMC, a non-profit and professional organization, serves as an avenue for exchanging global banking insights among the 58 largest financial institutions in 31 countries.

They include commercial banks, central bank governors, senior government officials, and chief executives of global financial organizations such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

"His appointment marks a milestone not only for BDO but also for the Philippine banking industry, which continues to gain recognition in the global financial community," BDO said.

Tan has been leading BDO since 1998, making him among the most successful and trusted presidents and chief executive officers of the SM Group of Companies.

Under his leadership, BDO expanded into 16 international offices and secured the country's top spot for the highest amounts of total assets, loans, deposits, and trust funds under management based on financial statements as of December 31, 2024.

Established in 1954, IMC has contributed to developing sound policies that strengthen global banks' resiliency and generate positive, deep impact on clients.

The IMC members have gleaned insights from the organization's past presidents, including KBC Group Chief Executive Officer Johan Thijis from Belgium (2024-2025), BBVA Chairman Carlos Torres Vila from Spain (2023-2024), and Citigroup Inc. Chairman John Dugan from the United States (2022-2023).