The Central Bank of the Philippines hosted its second Iftar at its head office in Manila on 10 March 2026, convening Islamic banking and finance stakeholders to reinforce partnerships supporting the development of Shari’ah-compliant finance in the Philippines. Attendees included representatives from the BSP-led Islamic Finance Coordination Forum (IFCF), the Bangsamoro Government, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, the BSP Muslim community, the Shari’ah Supervisory Board, Islamic banking and finance institutions, national government agencies and regulatory bodies, and the diplomatic corps. In remarks during the event, BSP Deputy Governor Lyn I. Javier and Senior Assistant Governor Arifa A. Ala, who chairs the IFCF, framed Islamic finance as intended to operate as an integrated part of the financial system and to broaden access to finance for communities seeking products aligned with their values. The BSP also pointed to IFCF-led work that has supported roadshows, sukuk and regulatory framework issuances, and the licensing of Islamic banking and takaful providers.
Central Bank of the Philippines 2026-03-19
Central Bank of the Philippines hosts second Iftar to strengthen coordination on Islamic banking and finance
The Central Bank of the Philippines hosted its second Iftar in Manila to strengthen partnerships for Shari’ah-compliant finance development. BSP Deputy Governor Lyn I. Javier and Senior Assistant Governor Arifa A. Ala emphasized Islamic finance's role in integrating into the financial system and expanding access to value-aligned products. The BSP highlighted IFCF-led initiatives, including roadshows, sukuk issuances, and licensing of Islamic banking and takaful providers.