By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – China Bank Savings reported continued growth in the first quarter of 2026, posting a net income of P632.2 million, an 11.5% increase from the same period last year, driven by stronger performance across its core banking businesses.
The CBS noted that its net interest income rose 20.4% year-on-year to P2.8 billion, supported by sustained expansion in its lending portfolio. Total assets reached P217.3 billion, backed by a customer base of more than one million.
Net loans grew by 11.5% to P155.5 billion, driven mainly by salary and business loans. Deposits also increased by 12.0% to P191.4 billion, strengthening the bank’s liquidity position.
Asset quality remained stable, with a non-performing loan (NPL) ratio of 2.9%, while loan-loss allowances remained adequate, reflecting the bank’s conservative risk management approach.
CBS President James Christian T. Dee said the bank’s performance reflects strong customer relationships and trust. “CBS prides itself in maintaining strong relationships with its customers, and they have rewarded the Bank with loyalty.”
CBS Chairman Ricardo R. Chua said the bank’s agility gives it an advantage in a changing economic environment. He noted that CBS is strengthening its position in the thrift banking sector through affordable loan products and a growing, skilled workforce.
The bank continued expanding its nationwide footprint with 175 branches, 34 APD lending centers, and 73 branch-lite units, supported by more than 3,000 employees.
As part of its expansion plan, CBS converted 10 branch-lite units into full-service branches in April 2026 and is set to open five more branches by the end of the second quarter, bringing its total branch network to 190.
CBS Senior Vice President and Retail Banking Group Head Jan Nikolai M. Lim said the expansion supports the bank’s goal of expanding its “Easy Banking” services nationwide, citing confidence in the Philippine economy’s resilience and the needs of Filipino entrepreneurs.
Looking ahead, CBS said it will continue to focus on higher-yield loan segments, grow its CASA base, strengthen customer relationships, and improve efficiency through continued investments in both physical and digital banking infrastructure.
