An engineer by profession, Cecille Bautista spent over 25 years with Intel Technology Philippines before joining the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), the Philippine government-owned and controlled corporation responsible for water security in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. In 2018, she assumed the Chairmanship of the Board of Bannawag Bank – the second rural bank to be established in La Union – which was co-founded by her parents in 1957.

Drawing on her extensive experience from both the private and public sectors, Ms. Bautista institutionalized key processes in the Balaoan-based bank, strengthening the organization amid the challenges brought about by COVID-19.

In 2026, Ms. Bautista joined Bayanihan Bank’s Board of Directors, sharing its vision of bringing financial services to the most isolated and disadvantaged communities in the country. As the bank penetrates more underserved areas, she sees great potential in increasing its product offerings, particularly to help its clientele build long-term wealth.

“Of course, when you borrow money, it is with the ultimate goal of earning and growing your business. But there’s also another side to it, where you want to be able to save 20-30% of your earnings. So that when you’re older, you have money saved that you can use. This would be a very good opportunity to offer more wealth-growing services.

As Bayanihan Bank continues to expand, it is crucial that we know and understand our customers even better, so that we can provide them with exactly what they need.”