Manila: Finance Secretary Ralph Recto recently met with senior officials of JP Morgan to explore potential areas of collaboration and initiatives in the Philippine capital market. The meeting took place at the Department of Finance (DOF) head office in Manila on November 18, as shared in a social media post by the department. According to Philippines News Agency, the discussions focused on JP Morgan's ongoing operations in the Philippines, potential partnership avenues, and progress in including Philippine government-issued securities in the JP Morgan Bond Index. The DOF emphasized that such inclusion would enhance foreign investor access to peso-denominated government bonds, reduce friction costs, and strengthen the country's investment attractiveness. JP Morgan is recognized as a leading global financial services firm providing solutions to major corporations, governments, and institutions worldwide. Joining Secretary Recto in the meeting were Chief Economist and DOF Undersecretary Domini Velasquez and Na tional Treasurer Sharon Almanza. JP Morgan's delegation included vice chair for public sector Daniel Zelikow; managing director, senior country officer, and head of banking for the Philippines Carlos Mendoza; managing director and head of public sector coverage for Asia Pacific Karl Yeh; and executive director and head of global corporate banking for Philippines Louie Maloles.