RCBC to Raise PHP3 Billion Through Green Sustainability Bonds to Fund Environmental and Social Projects

Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) is making its return to the domestic capital markets with the launch of its fixed-rate, peso-denominated sustainability bonds. The offering, amounting to PHP3 billion, is part of the bank’s PHP200 billion Bond and Commercial Paper Program.

This marks the eighth drawdown under the bank’s ongoing issuance program and reflects RCBC’s commitment to funding environmentally and socially impactful projects. The sustainability bonds will have a 2.5-year tenor and are slated for listing on the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. (PDEx) by July 17, 2025.

In a disclosure, RCBC said that proceeds from the offering will be allocated to finance or refinance projects under its Sustainable Finance Framework. Eligible categories include renewable energy, energy efficiency, clean transportation, pollution prevention and control, and other qualified green and social investments in alignment with the country’s sustainability objectives.

The bank has also filed an application with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the bonds to be certified under the ASEAN Sustainability Bond Standards. These standards promote transparency and accountability in sustainable financing across the region. RCBC is awaiting final SEC approval.

The public offer period will run from June 25 to July 9, 2025, subject to market conditions and management approval. Standard Chartered Bank and RCBC Capital Corporation have been tapped as joint arrangers and selling agents, alongside RCBC.

In its statement, RCBC said the latest bond issuance underscores its long-standing commitment to a “greener and more sustainable future” by channeling capital into eligible sustainability-linked assets. The offering also reflects increasing investor appetite for products that contribute to environmental and social development goals.

RCBC continues to be one of the Philippines’ most active issuers of sustainability-labeled debt, supporting the financial sector’s growing role in the country’s energy transition and climate resilience efforts.