Ronald Abarquez

I am a senior corporate and banking compliance attorney with over 21 years of post-Bar experience navigating the complex legal landscapes of the Philippines' top universal banks. My career has focused on translating intricate regulatory mandates into practical, secure business strategies. I specialize in core financial law, anti-money laundering (AML) protocols, and contract management, alongside dedicated legal and compliance divisions.

Having collaborated extensively with executive leadership to protect institutions from fraud and financial risk, I am looking to bring my deep understanding of local laws and corporate governance to a global banking group like MUFG.

BDO Unibank, Inc. (June 2018 – Present)Role: Consumer Groups, LawyerProvide critical legal opinions and proactive risk advisory to the consumer banking group to minimize financial and fraud exposure.Draft, review, and negotiate complex financial agreements, remittance frameworks, and high-value cash service documents.Ensure full compliance of consumer digital banking applications and retail products with BSP consumer protection and data privacy mandates.Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) (May 2014 – May 2018)Role: Regulatory Affairs Division IV Head / AML Division HeadCommanded the bank's enterprise-wide regulatory and AML initiatives, managing internal legal teams.Designed and updated critical policy compliance frameworks aligned directly with BSP and AMLC regulations.Acted as the bank’s main liaison officer during vital regulatory audits, investigations, and operational transitions.Philippine National Bank (PNB) (May 2011 – April 2014)Role: Research LawyerDelivered authoritative legal opinions and actionable risk assessments across the nationwide commercial branch network.Analyzed emerging financial legislation to safeguard the deployment of retail and corporate banking products.Commission on Elections (COMELEC) (September 2009 – February 2011)Role: Executive Assistant IV (Office of the Commissioner)Drafted and reviewed formal Commission resolutions and coordinated executive documentation requirements with the Commission on Appointments.Rustan Supercenters, Inc. / Escudero Law Office (April 2005 – September 2009)Role: Assistant Corporate Counsel / Junior AssociateManaged general corporate legal affairs, reviewed supplier contracts, and litigated diverse civil, criminal, and labor law cases.

Ateneo Law SchoolDegree: Juris DoctorGraduation: March 2004Credentials: Admitted to the Philippine Bar (May 05, 2005)Ateneo de Manila UniversityDegree: A.B. EconomicsGraduation: March 2000