Philippine banks' lending grows at a slower pace in March 2025

Consumer loans grew 23.6% from more credit cards, motor vehicles, and general loans.

Outstanding loans held by universal and commercial banks in the Philippines grew by 11.8% in March 2025, according to data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

This is slower than the 12.2% expansion recorded in February.

Outstanding loans to residents expanded at 12.3% in March, extending the 12.6% rise in February.

Consumer loans to residents grew by 23.6% in March driven by the increase in credit card loans, motor vehicle loans, and salary-based general purpose consumption loans.

Outstanding loans to non-residents decreased by 5.6% in March, following a 3.2% decline in the previous month.

Loans for production activities grew by 10.9% in Mach, from 11.2% in February.

Slower expansion in lending to key industries contributed to the easing of loan growth, the BSP said.