AIIB eyes $200M for Metro Manila Sponge City
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has committed about USD200 million in potential financing for a Metro Manila “Sponge City” project designed to strengthen the capital region’s defenses against increasingly severe flooding.
BPI marks 175 years with worry-free auto loan offers, up to five years free insurance
The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), on its 175th anniversary, is rolling out enhanced benefits under its BPI Auto Loan Dream More Deals to make car ownership simpler, more affordable, and free from unexpected costs. Eligible customers can now secure up to five years of complimentary car insurance alongside significant fee waivers and lower interest rates, designed to remove common financial concerns that come with owning a vehicle.
BIR moves to remove VAT on system loss charges
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is preparing a circular to remove value-added tax (VAT) on allowable system loss charges, a move that could help lower electricity bills for consumers.
SSS pays P205.56B in benefits through July
The Social Security System (SSS) paid P205.56 billion in benefits to members, pensioners, and beneficiaries in the first seven months of 2026, as contribution collections continued to provide the bulk of funding for payouts.
Transboundary haze affects part of PH; DENR issues health warnings and safety guidelines
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) has alerted the public to widespread haze across several key regions, including the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, and portions of Central Visayas. Monitoring and weather assessments link the condition to smoke from ongoing fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, carried to the country by prevailing winds.
