BSP chief on medical leave to remove blood clot after ‘minor head accident’

MANILA, Philippines — Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno went on medical leave this week in the wake of what was described as “a successful procedure to address a blood clot caused by a minor head accident.”

In a statement released on Monday afternoon, the central bank said the 72-year-old Diokno designated BSP Deputy Governor Francisco Dakila Jr. as officer-in-charge of the BSP while he recovers from a medical procedure performed yesterday.

“According to his medical report, prognosis for the governor’s complete recovery is “very good” as he was awake and conversant an hour after the procedure,” the central bank said. “He is expected to be discharged from the hospital in four to five days and is anticipated to return to work subsequently.”

In a text message to the Inquirer, Diokno said his condition was “nothing serious” and added: “I’ll be up and working soon.”

Diokno, in a message to the Monetary Board and BSP staff, said “The procedure went well and I’m now on my way to recovery. Meanwhile, I’m designating Francis Dakila as OIC BSP Governor while I’m recuperating.”

The BSP remains focused in promoting price stability, financial system stability and an efficient payment system, the statement added.

Diokno — a former two-time secretary of Budget and Management — was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte to head the central bank in March 2019 following the death of his predecessor and will serve as the country’s chief monetary and bank regulator until July 2023.

JPV