Philippines confident it can pass US labor probe
The Philippines believes it can address concerns raised by the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) after Washington launched a new investigation into the country’s alleged shortcomings in enforcing restrictions on goods produced with forced labor.
BOP swings to $5.7-B deficit in 2025 amid weaker capital inflows
The Philippines posted a US$5.7-billion balance of payments (BOP) deficit in 2025, equivalent to 1.2 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). This marked a reversal from the US$609-million surplus recorded in 2024.
DA, SRA race to secure sugar industry input amid Middle East disruption
The government is moving to safeguard fuel and fertilizer supplies for the sugar industry as the sector enters the most resource-intensive phase of the harvest season.
Gov’t orders cut in airport fees to help lower air travel costs
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez has directed the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to reduce Passenger Service Charges (PSC) and airport navigation fees in airports operated by the agency.
Coffee costs clip Universal Robina profits
Universal Robina Corp., the listed food unit of the Gokongwei Group, posted modest revenue growth last year but saw profits ease as unusually high coffee input costs squeezed margins, highlighting how volatile commodity prices continue to challenge food manufacturers.
