Metrobank Q1 profit climbs to P12.6-B

Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) reported a net income of ₱12.6 billion in the first quarter of 2026, supported by steady asset growth, improved margins, and stronger fee-based revenues.

In a recent statement, the bank said net interest income rose by 13 percent to ₱33.4 billion, reflecting sustained lending activity and better yields.

Gross loans expanded by 9.2 percent, driven by both corporate and consumer segments. Corporate and commercial loans increased by 8.6 percent, while consumer loans grew faster at 11.2 percent.

Deposits also continued to strengthen, reaching ₱2.6 trillion, with low-cost Current and Savings Accounts (CASA) rising 8.4 percent and accounting for 59.2 percent of total deposits.

Fee and trust income climbed 11.8 percent to ₱5.1 billion, helping cushion the impact of volatility in trading income.

Operating expenses, meanwhile, increased by 9.8 percent to ₱21.1 billion, attributed mainly to higher transaction-related taxes and technology investments.

The bank’s asset quality remained solid, with its non-performing loan (NPL) ratio at 1.75 percent as of February 2026, significantly below the industry average of 3.44 percent.

Total consolidated assets expanded by 8.3 percent to ₱3.8 trillion, making Metrobank the second-largest private universal bank in terms of assets.

“Our first-quarter results underscore the resilience of Metrobank’s core businesses and the consistency of our execution. With strong capitalization, solid asset quality, and healthy buffers, we remain well-positioned to manage risks while continuing to support the growth and funding needs of our customers,” Metrobank President Fabian Dee said.