COL Financial: PSEi could hit 7,500 by year-end
Philippine retail stock broker COL Financial Inc. said on Monday the country’s main stock index may still reach 7,500 points by the end of the year — a level higher than before the Middle East conflict started earlier this year.
Manila Bay Bridge project moves closer to reality with upcoming contract awards
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced that it is getting ready to award critical construction segments for the $3.91-billion Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge. Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said that key contracts for sections over Manila Bay will be finalized soon, building on earlier progress like last year's award for a 1.3-kilometer land approach road in Cavite. The massive infrastructure project is funded through a partnership between the Philippine government and the Asian Development Bank, which provided a $2.11-billion loan.
DICT, LANDBANK partner on AI tools to help MSMEs access financing
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has signed a deal with Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) to develop AI-powered digital solutions for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This partnership supports the ASEAN Priority Economic Deliverable on AI-Powered MSME Growth, as the Philippines chairs this year’s ASEAN Summit. The two agencies will build on the DICT’s mobile-first AI Tech Stack, which helps businesses prepare business plans, meet requirements, and find funding, with support in Filipino, English, and other local languages. Officials said the initiative will make AI accessible to more small firms, improve their credit standing, and boost their competitiveness across the country and the region.
Treasury raises P80B as demand stays robust
The Bureau of the Treasury raised P80 billion after fully awarding Treasury bills and cash management bills at the auction on Monday, with strong investor demand allowing the government to secure fresh funding despite mixed movements in short-term interest rates.
Port users seek tougher safeguards against hidden shipping fees
Port users are urging regulators to tighten proposed reforms on cargo handling and container yard operations, arguing that stronger safeguards are needed to ensure lower logistics costs as the government pushes to modernize Philippine ports.
