Banking & Insurance

Borrowing in foreign currencies by domestic industries drove a notable quarter-on-quarter increase in foreign currency deposit unit (FCDU) loans, which rose to $16.31 billion in the second quarter of 2026. This marks a 5.6 percent expansion from the $15.44 billion recorded in the previous quarter, signaling strong credit demand among key economic sectors operating in foreign trade and essential local industries.

Economic strains including higher prices for everyday goods are pushing most Filipinos to focus on covering current household expenses rather than setting money aside for future milestones, according to the latest Purple Report from East West Ageas Life Insurance Corp.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas expects headline inflation to settle between 6.4 percent and 7.4 percent for September 2026, pointing to persistent cost pressures that will continue to stretch consumer budgets and squeeze corporate margins.

InLife is stepping up efforts to make insurance easier to access as Filipinos increasingly turn to digital platforms for financial and everyday services.

Manulife Philippines is expanding its nationwide branch network with new offices in Bacolod City and San Fernando, Pampanga, as the life insurer moves to broaden access to its financial, health and life solutions.