METROPOLITAN Bank and Trust Co. (Metrobank) is recognized by the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) as the Top Market Maker for Government Securities Eligible Dealers (GSED) for 2024 during the celebration of its 126th anniversary.

The bank brings home the title for the third consecutive year in recognition of its efforts in aiding the government in its financing requirements and enhancing Filipinos’ access to investment opportunities.

The Treasury also recognized nine other financial institutions during the awarding ceremony.

As the top market maker, Metrobank Financial Markets Sector Head Fernand Antonio Tansingco delivered his remarks on behalf of all awardees.

“Uncertainty will be a permanent fixture of the market; our task is to rise above the headwinds and write the next chapter of market development. Our goals are clear. We have a lot of unfinished business. How can we increase participation in the bond markets? How can we increase market liquidity? How can we reduce the cost of transact[ing]? And how can we ensure a vibrant, active market regardless of the direction of interest rates? These are Herculean tasks that we are faced with, and the problems we, as a community, have to solve,” he said.

“We, in Metrobank, pledge in solidarity with other GSED market makers here today,” he added.

The Enhanced GSED program, which provides for the obligations and privileges of GSED Market Makers, was launched in 2018 as part of reforms to improve the depth and liquidity of the Government Securities markets.

GSEDs are evaluated yearly based on total primary market volume, auction participation, bid efficiency, secondary market performance and support for BTr’s capital market development initiatives.