BPI MS strengthens leadership team with appointments of Efren Caringal Jr. and Karen Custodia

Manila, Philippines - October 02, 2026 - MANILA, Philippines — BPI/MS Insurance Corporation (BPI MS) has strengthened its leadership team with the appointments of Efren Caringal Jr. as Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Katherine “Karen” Custodia as Chief Bancassurance, Marketing and Partnerships Officer (CBMPO).

The appointments bring together two experienced insurance executives whose expertise spans operations, transformation, risk management, bancassurance, sales, marketing, and strategic partnerships, reinforcing BPI MS’s focus on operational excellence, customer-centric innovation, and sustainable growth.

Caringal was appointed COO effective September 1, 2026, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience in the insurance industry.

Prior to joining BPI MS, he held several key leadership positions at Insular Life, including Chief Risk Officer, Chief Transformation Officer, and Chief Operating Officer. He also spent more than a decade with the Allianz Group, where he served in local, regional, and global leadership roles, including Chief Finance Officer, Treasurer, and Chief Investment Officer of Allianz PNB Life.

As COO, Caringal will lead BPI MS’s operations strategy and transformation agenda, strengthen operational capabilities, and support the delivery of greater value to customers and business partners.

Meanwhile, Custodia joined BPI MS effective September 16, 2026, on secondment from BPI. She brings almost 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, with a strong background in bancassurance, sales leadership, marketing, and partnership management.

Before joining BPI MS, Custodia spent 13 years with BPI AIA Life Assurance Corporation, most recently as Chief Executive Officer. In the role, she led the company and oversaw its partnership distribution business and strategic relationship with BPI. Earlier, she served as Head of Partnership Distribution Sales Channels, where she led a nationwide sales organization and helped strengthen distribution effectiveness, partner engagement, and sales productivity.

Her experience in customer-focused distribution, bancassurance, and relationship management will support BPI MS’s efforts to strengthen its market presence and customer value proposition.

“Efren and Karen are respected leaders with proven track records of building strong teams, driving meaningful change, and delivering results. We are excited to have them join BPI MS and look forward to the fresh perspectives and extensive experience they bring. Together, we will continue strengthening our commitment to serving our customers and partners with excellence,” said BPI MS President and CEO Noriyuki Kobayashi.

The appointments mark another step in BPI MS’s continued efforts to strengthen its leadership capabilities and advance its long-term strategic priorities. As the company continues to evolve, it remains focused on delivering accessible, relevant, and customer-centric insurance solutions supported by trusted partnerships and operational excellence.

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About BPI/MS Insurance Corporation

BPI/MS Insurance Corporation is a joint venture between the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company, offering comprehensive non-life insurance products to protect what matters most. From motor and property insurance to personal accident and travel coverage, BPI MS provides reliable protection and peace of mind to individuals and businesses. With a commitment to customer-centric service and financial security, BPI MS continues to be a trusted name in the insurance industry. Visit www.bpims.com for more information.