Corporate

Universal Robina Corporation has secured key recognitions from two of Hong Kong’s biggest retail chains, PARKnSHOP and 7-Eleven, marking a major step forward in the company’s international expansion and localization efforts.

The Philippines made progress in reducing child labor in 2025, but the gains came with a troubling twist. More Filipino children entered the workforce even as the number trapped in hazardous or exploitative work remained stubbornly high.

The Securities and Exchange Commission has proposed updated regulations for credit rating firms to boost transparency, credibility, and investor confidence in the Philippine corporate bond market.

Conglomerate San Miguel Corporation has launched a P30 billion preferred share offering, with funds set to go toward debt refinancing and key infrastructure projects including the proposed New Manila International Airport in Bulacan. The Securities and Exchange Commission gave approval for the offer the previous Tuesday. The shares will be open for subscription until July 23, with listing on the Philippine Stock Exchange scheduled for August 3.

Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions Inc., a major fiber internet provider, announced on Wednesday it has expanded its share buyback program with an additional P5 billion to boost shareholder value. The move was approved by the company’s board of directors. Chief financial officer Robert Leo Yu confirmed the extra funds will not disrupt daily operations or planned spending, including ongoing network expansion across the Visayas and Mindanao. He noted the decision reflects strong confidence in the firm’s worth and its ability to reward investors while maintaining heavy investments in national fiber infrastructure, supported by a solid financial position. Actual purchases will depend on market conditions and follow securities rules. Converge shares closed at P9.25 each on Wednesday.