Rafael Buenaventura

Who was Rafael Buenaventura?

Rafael Carlos Baltazar Buenaventura was a prominent banker in the Philippines and one-time governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas; he served under two Philippine presidents during one of the most tumultuous political transitions in the country’s history.

Known for his fierce independence, Buenaventura was often targeted for removal from public office throughout his six-year term. However, his shrewd handling of both his detractors and supporters allowed him to accomplish key policy reforms at a time when political upheavals often derailed the country's economic progress. By the end of his term as central bank governor, he had managed to steer the financial system closer to global standards.

He died November 30, 2006 at age 68 following a protracted fight with cancer.