Economy

The country's persistent port congestion stems less from empty containers than from thousands of overstaying laden boxes occupying valuable terminal space, according to the Association of International Shipping Lines (AISL), which is urging faster action from the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has sounded the alarm over worsening cargo congestion at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), warning that prolonged delays could undermine the competitiveness of the country’s largest export industry.

Japanese companies are preparing a new round of investments in the Philippines, reinforcing the country's position as a key manufacturing base in Southeast Asia amid ongoing efforts to diversify supply chains and strengthen regional production networks.

Philippine exporters are calling on the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to establish clear rules governing returned export shipments, warning that policy gaps are compounding losses from ongoing disruptions in Middle East and European trade routes.

Clark Freeport’s growth story gained another boost after property developer Berthaphil, Inc. expanded its footprint in the economic zone, a move seen to reinforce investor confidence and create additional capacity for future business locators.