Philippine government bonds will be included for the first time in the J.P. Morgan Government Bond Index–Emerging Markets starting January 29 next year. The index is widely used by global investors to track bond markets in developing countries.
According to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) this development shows growing investor confidence in Philippine debt and its stronger integration into global markets.
Nine Philippine sovereign bonds, worth about $49 billion in total, will be added to the index. The Philippines is expected to have a 1.78 percent share in the benchmark.
The SEC said inclusion in the index could attract more foreign investment, improve trading in the bond market, and help ensure fair pricing.
SEC chairman Francis E. Lim said the development reflects ongoing economic reforms and alignment with international standards, boosting investor trust.
The SEC added it will continue working with financial agencies to improve market conditions and make it easier for foreign investors to participate, aiming to strengthen the country’s position as an investment destination in Southeast Asia.
