DBP-PHIVOLCS geohazard risk partnership

The Philippines — Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), a state-owned bank, has signed a memorandum of agreement with the Philippines — Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), under the Philippines — Department of Science and Technology (Philippines), to integrate geohazard information into the bank's risk management and lending operations. Under the agreement, PHIVOLCS will grant DBP free access to its GeoRiskPH platform, including the HazardHunterPH Pro application, enabling the bank to assess the potential impact of natural hazards on loan collaterals, investments, acquired assets, branch locations, and other facilities. The partnership also includes joint capacity-building training across key bank departments such as lending, branch banking, special assets, and credit appraisal. DBP President and CEO Michael O. de Jesus stated that the initiative supports evidence-based credit evaluations, data-driven business decisions, and strengthens institutional resilience, particularly for financing projects in rural areas. DBP is the ninth-largest bank in the Philippines with total assets of P1.041 trillion, focusing on infrastructure, MSMEs, environment, and social services.