Banking & Insurance
War relief steps may dent banks’ earnings outlook
Relief measures for Philippine borrowers hit by the ongoing Middle East conflict may steady credit conditions but are likely to trim banks’ profitability, according to an April 16 report by S&P Global Ratings.
Inflation biting harder this year as BSP raises forecast to 5.1%
Households across the country are continuing to feel the pressure of rising prices as inflation drives up everyday expenses. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has increased its 2026 average inflation forecast to 5.1 percent, citing global economic pressures and elevated oil prices. While fuel price rollbacks have provided occasional relief, higher costs for goods and services remain a persistent burden.
Remittances hit $2.8B in February, supporting the economy
Cash remittances from overseas Filipinos reached $2.79 billion in February 2026, bringing total inflows for the first two months of the year to $5.81 billion, a 3.1 percent increase from the same period in 2025.
ASEAN finance leaders reaffirm resilience amid global uncertainty
Finance ministers and central bank governors from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) reaffirmed the region’s economic resilience despite rising global risks and uncertainty.
BSP grants relief measures amid energy crisis
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has approved temporary relief measures to help banks and borrowers cope with rising energy costs and supply issues linked to tensions in the Middle East.
