CLARO V. MORALES
Tung Chung,Hong Kong
Summary
Seasoned Anti-Money Laundering and Compliance professional with over 30 years in banking, including 14 years focused on AML, Counter-Financing of Terrorism, and regulatory compliance. Led the design and implementation of AML/CFT frameworks, advising Boards and Senior Management on financial crime risks and compliance governance. Excelled in engaging with regulators and law enforcement, fostering a strong culture of compliance across organisations.
Overview
3
3
Languages
1
1
Certification
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Manager | Anti-Money Laundering Officer | Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO)
BPI Wealth Hong Kong
Hong Kong
05.2016 - Current
- Led AML/CFT compliance efforts as Manager-In-Charge, ensuring adherence to Securities and Futures Ordinance and Section 72B of Banking Ordinance while mitigating financial crime risk.
- Guided institution's Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework as AML Officer and MLRO, ensuring robust compliance and risk management.
- Report directly to the Board of Directors through the Risk Management Committee on AML/CFT matters and emerging financial crime risks.
- Chair the AML/CFT Committee and lead strategic initiatives to strengthen regulatory compliance and risk management practices.
- Develop, review, and maintain AML/CFT policies, procedures, and control frameworks in line with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
- Advised Senior Management and Board on regulatory guidance and financial crime risk, enhancing decision-making and strategic oversight.
- Oversee transaction monitoring, sanctions screening, customer due diligence, and ongoing customer risk assessments.
- Conduct AML compliance testing and control assessments to ensure effectiveness of the AML programme.
- Evaluate and prepare Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) for submission to relevant Financial Intelligence Units.
Anti-Money Laundering Officer
Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
10.2012 - 04.2016
- Managed transaction monitoring and alert review processes to identify potential AML risks and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
- Liaised with regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies to ensure adherence to AML compliance requirements and facilitate investigations.
- Conducted investigations and risk assessments of unusual and suspicious transactions.
- Prepared Suspicious Transaction Reports for submission to regulatory authorities and Financial Intelligence Units.
- Coordinated AML/CFT initiatives with the bank's AML Committee and key business units to enhance collaboration and response strategies.
- Facilitated AML/CFT training programmes for officers and employees.
Branch Manager
Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
09.1999 - 10.2012
- Led branch personnel to achieve business growth targets, maintaining operational excellence and effective risk controls.
- Managed branch operations, sales performance, customer service delivery, ensuring regulatory compliance.
- Developed client relationships across retail and commercial banking segments, enhancing customer loyalty and satisfaction.
- Ensured compliance with banking regulations, internal policies, and operational standards.
Sales Officer
BPI Family Savings Bank
09.1997 - 08.1999
- Managed sales activities and customer acquisition initiatives, driving engagement for consumer banking products.
- Developed business relationships, enhancing portfolio growth and supporting revenue generation.
- Managed customer relationships through consultative sales techniques to attain individual sales goals.
- Achieved company targets by implementing successful sales strategies.
- Resolved customer issues and complaints with quick-thinking problem-solving.
Sales Associate
BPI Family Savings Bank
10.1995 - 08.1997
- Supported sales and marketing initiatives for banking products, enhancing customer engagement.
- Assisted customers with loan and product applications, ensuring high-quality service and satisfaction.
- Resolved customer queries using active listening and problem-solving skills.
- Assisted customers in finding products, offering detailed information to increase sales and enhance shopping experience.
- Assisted customers in selecting products that best fit their personal needs and preferences.
Teller
Citytrust Banking Corporation
09.1992 - 09.1995
- Processed customer transactions, ensuring accuracy and compliance with banking procedures and controls to maintain service quality.
- Assisted in merger process with BPI Family Savings Bank, contributing to integration of policies and systems.
- Processed customer transactions quickly and accurately, including deposits, withdrawals, and loan payments.
- Offered every customer exceptional service levels by remaining friendly and professional during every transaction.
- Monitored ATM operations, replenished cash supplies, and resolved machine discrepancies.
New Accounts Clerk
Urban Bank
10.1990 - 03.1991
- Processed account opening documentation and facilitated customer onboarding.
- Monitored adherence to bank policies and account opening requirements.
- Reconciled bank statements monthly, identifying discrepancies and rectifying them to maintain accurate financial records.
- Prepared month-end closing entries to maintain detailed reporting and recordkeeping.
- Assisted with receiving, processing and verifying all invoices related to accounts payables.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
De La Salle University
Manila, Philippines01-1991
Skills
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML)
- Counter-Financing of Terrorism (CFT)
- Financial Crime Risk Management
- MLRO functions
- Regulatory Compliance
- Sanctions Compliance & Screening
- Transaction monitoring
- Suspicious reporting
- Risk Assessment & Controls
- Compliance testing
- Board & Senior Management Reporting
- Regulatory Liaison
- Policy development
- Staff Training & Awareness
- Banking Governance
Languages
English
Proficient
C2
Pilipino Tagalog
Proficient
C2
Spanish
Elementary
A2
Certification
- University of Hong Kong School of Professional and Continuing Education (HKU SPACE) Enhanced Competency Framework on AML/CFT (Professional Level) May 2018
- Hong Kong Institute of Bankers Associate AML Professional (AAMLP) November 2017
- De La Salle University Centre for Professional Development in Business and Economics Certificate in Bank Compliance May 2013
Disclaimer
Personal and Professional references are available upon request.
Interests
- Road and Mountain cycling
- Hiking
- Leading a Catholic Ministry
- Photography
Timeline
Senior Manager | Anti-Money Laundering Officer | Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO)
BPI Wealth Hong Kong
05.2016 - Current
Anti-Money Laundering Officer
Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
10.2012 - 04.2016
Branch Manager
Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
09.1999 - 10.2012
Sales Officer
BPI Family Savings Bank
09.1997 - 08.1999
Sales Associate
BPI Family Savings Bank
10.1995 - 08.1997
Teller
Citytrust Banking Corporation
09.1992 - 09.1995
New Accounts Clerk
Urban Bank
10.1990 - 03.1991
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
De La Salle University