The Bank of the Philippine Islands has wrapped up the 2026 BPI Corregidor Cup, reinforcing its push to link wealth management with high-profile lifestyle and sustainability initiatives.
Held from February 20 to 22, the three-day regatta marked the second leg of the BPI Private Wealth Signature Yacht Race Series and gathered 14 boats competing in three classes. Organized by the Ocean Racing Club of the Philippines, the event took sailors through the demanding waters around Corregidor, with routes passing historic landmarks such as Fort Drum and La Monja, as well as markers near Punta Fuego Yacht Club. Unpredictable winds and shifting currents tested crews’ strategy, coordination and precision, underscoring the race’s reputation as one of the most technically challenging on the local sailing calendar.
Regatta chairman James Villareal said the partnership with BPI Private Wealth has elevated the level of competition while promoting discipline and continuous improvement within the sailing community. The Corregidor Cup is widely regarded as a race that rewards precision and tactical decision-making over sheer speed, with tight corrected-time margins across categories this year reflecting close competition.
Now in its third season, the yacht race series also serves as a platform for environmental advocacy under the theme “Do More for the Philippine Seas.” Through its partnership with WWF-Philippines, the series promotes marine conservation in the waters around Corregidor, highlighting their importance to fisheries, coastal communities and marine biodiversity. Organizers have integrated sustainability messaging and conservation education into race activities, positioning stewardship as a shared responsibility among participants and sponsors.
Maria Theresa Marcial, president and chief executive of BPI Wealth, said the discipline and foresight required in sailing reflect the bank’s own principles as it marks 175 years of operations. She said the regatta series demonstrates BPI’s commitment to responsible wealth growth, community support and environmental protection.
On the water, Selma Star, a Beneteau First 36.7 skippered by Marcus Avecilla, emerged as overall winner and topped the IRC Class after a consistent performance across multiple race days. Despacito, a Beneteau Oceanis 51.1 led by Pablo Lobregat, won the Cruising Class, while Estelita Del Mar, a Leopard 45 catamaran skippered by Andy Aguila, secured victory in the Ocean Multihull Class.
With two legs completed, the BPI Private Wealth Signature Yacht Race Series moves to its next event, the BPI Boracay 200 scheduled for March 9 to 15. The offshore race, also organized by the Ocean Racing Club of the Philippines, will cover 200 nautical miles from Subic to Boracay, further strengthening the bank’s presence in the country’s competitive sailing circuit while advancing its corporate branding and sustainability agenda.
