Economy

The Board of Investments (BOI) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) have strengthened their partnership to fast-track investments and position Mindanao as a major driver of economic growth in the Philippines.

A broad alliance of government agencies and industry groups is stepping up efforts to curb illicit trade, targeting an estimated P141 billion in lost revenues over the past two years through a coordinated enforcement and revenue-protection strategy.

The country’s gross international reserves (GIR) stood at US$104 billion at the end of May 2026, remaining at a level that ensures the country has enough foreign currency to meet import requirements, pay external debt obligations, and as a safety net against global economic disruptions. This serves as a key indicator of the nation’s ability to fulfill its foreign currency commitments.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is tightening its grip on illicit tobacco trade, reporting major enforcement gains in the first half of 2026 as intelligence-led operations and stronger coordination with prosecutors begin to translate seizures into court cases.

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is looking beyond roads, factories, and industrial parks for its next growth story. This time, its sights are set on satellites.