Economy

The Philippines has made measurable gains toward achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). But the country remains off pace on most targets, highlighting the challenge of translating progress into meaningful outcomes before the 2030 deadline.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. returned from Canada with USD2.5 billion in investment commitments, betting that the Philippines' next wave of growth will come not only from traditional sectors but also from artificial intelligence, critical minerals, nuclear energy and even space.

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) sustained its strong revenue momentum in June, collecting P86.07 billion and surpassing its monthly target by P2.83 billion as stronger trade flows and tighter customs enforcement continued to lift collections.

The conviction of seven kidnappers in the abduction of a 78-year-old businesswoman has strengthened the Philippines' reputation as a safer place to invest and visit, according to the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), which said swift justice can be as important as economic incentives in attracting business.

Fresh Canadian mining investments and deeper cooperation on critical minerals and clean energy are set to bolster the Philippines' drive to become a preferred destination for responsible mining while creating jobs and supporting the global energy transition.