CTB at 49: On the road to a future of exciting possibilities

MANILA, Philippines — Based on the 2020 report of the International Trade Center, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the economic lifeblood of the Philippines. They account for more than 99% of registered businesses in the country and provide 60% of jobs.

Increasing the competitiveness of small firms, therefore, is vital to build their resilience against shocks while promoting sustainable and inclusive growth and ultimately, help in nation-building.

It is in this context that thrift banks play an immense role in the country’s financial system and economy, as these banks primarily focus on providing services to individuals and SMEs.

And since its inception in 1974, the integrated Chamber of Thrift Banks (CTB) has proven its effectiveness as a professional association through the policies it has been able to translate into concrete action and programs it has managed to put in place, all for the benefit of its customers and stakeholders.

In celebration of its 49th anniversary this year, here is a quick look at some of the CTB’s most significant milestones after almost five decades.

2020s: From streamlining loan processes to adopting sustainability measures

In 2022, as a member of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas-Technical Working Group (BSP-TWG) on Small Business Loan Application Form (SBLAF), the CTB helped make possible the BSP Issuance on the SBLAF which is designed to streamline the loan application process for MSMEs.

In the same year, the chamber assisted member banks in their journey towards adopting sustainability principles in their organizations to address pressing environmental needs. This includes providing the banks, through a