The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has introduced new guidelines to help banks and other financial institutions use artificial intelligence (AI) safely and responsibly as more financial services adopt the technology.
Issued on June 24, 2026, the guidance gives BSP-supervised financial institutions (BSFIs) a framework for using AI while managing risks and protecting customers. The central bank said the goal is to help the financial sector benefit from AI without compromising security and public trust.
The guidelines are built around five principles called STARS: sustainability, transparency, accountability, responsibility, and security. These are intended to help financial institutions make better decisions when using AI in areas such as customer service, fraud detection, lending, and other banking operations.
“AI is spreading across BSFI operations and STARS provides them with principles that can help them innovate while mitigating unintended consequences from the use of the technology,” said Deputy Governor Lyn Javier. “We want BSFIs to take advantage of AI, especially to serve their customers, and do so while being guided by developing global standards.”
The guidance applies to all BSP-supervised financial institutions, including banks and other regulated financial companies. The BSP said each institution should apply the principles based on the size of its business, the complexity of its AI systems, and the risks involved.
The memorandum also covers third-party technology providers that help financial institutions develop or operate AI systems, making both parties responsible for managing AI-related risks.
While the guidelines are voluntary, the BSP said they represent its minimum expectations for responsible AI use. Financial institutions are encouraged to include the principles in their internal policies, risk management programs, and daily operations.
The BSP also clarified that its existing rules on cybersecurity, technology risk, outsourcing, and IT project management remain in effect. The new AI guidance is meant to work alongside those regulations, not replace them.
The principles are based on international guidance from organizations including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Financial Stability Institute (FSI), reflecting the global push for responsible AI in financial services.