MANILA – The Philippines' Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has announced the appointment of lawyer Ronel Buenaventura as its new executive director, effective April 14, 2026.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the council confirmed that Buenaventura will succeed Matthew David, who has requested a reassignment to another role within the central bank.
Buenaventura brings extensive experience in financial regulation and anti-money laundering efforts to the position. He previously served as acting deputy director of the AMLC Secretariat’s Commitments and Policy Group, where he played a key role in helping the Philippines secure its exit from the global "grey list"—a designation for jurisdictions under increased monitoring for money laundering risks.
"His background in both regulatory policy and fintech compliance positions him well to lead the AMLC's ongoing efforts to combat financial crimes," the council noted in its announcement.
Prior to his tenure at the AMLC, Buenaventura held the position of acting legal officer IV at the central bank’s Office of the General Counsel and Legal Services. He also served as vice president at a fintech firm, where he oversaw anti-money laundering compliance and conducted regulatory analysis focused on global trends in payments and the digital economy.
Earlier in his career, Buenaventura worked as associate solicitor III at the Office of the Solicitor General, further solidifying his expertise in legal and regulatory frameworks.
The appointment comes at a critical time for the Philippines as it continues to strengthen its anti-money laundering systems and maintain its standing in the global financial community.