Economy
Philippines pushes Canada pact before ASEAN
The Philippines is seeking to fast-track a bilateral free trade agreement with Canada, aiming to clinch a deal even as broader negotiations between Canada and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations move forward. Officials say an early deal could position the country as a strategic bridge linking North American supply chains with Southeast Asia’s expanding trade network.
Jobless rate jumps in January as labor participation slips
More Filipinos joined the ranks of the unemployed in January, with fresh labor data pointing to a softer job market after the Christmas season surge despite pockets of hiring across several industries.
US probe tests ASEAN trade balance
The Philippines is closely watching a new US trade investigation that could reshape manufacturing supply chains and complicate trade flows across Southeast Asia.
ASEAN urged to keep trade flowing
The Philippines is pressing Southeast Asian economies to keep markets open as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East threaten to rattle global supply chains and push up energy costs.
Excise tax, VAT suspension risks fiscal hole, Senate told
The Philippine government could forgo as much as P272.83 billion in revenues in 2026 if excise taxes and value-added tax (VAT) on fuel imports are suspended, according to estimates presented by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) during a Senate hearing on March 11.
