Economy
Foreign currency reserves rise, helping buffer peso weakness
The country’s gross international reserves increased to US$112.5 billion as of end-January 2026, based on preliminary Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas data, providing a strong external buffer at a time when the local currency has shown some weakness against the US dollar.
PH–Australia deal smooths seafarer mobility, trade
Australia and the Philippines have reinforced maritime cooperation by reaffirming the mutual recognition of seafarer certificates, a move expected to ease administrative barriers and improve shipping efficiency between the two nations, the Australian Embassy in Manila said.
Aboitiz opens Tokyo office, courts Japanese manufacturers
Aboitiz Economic Estates (AEE) has planted its flag in central Tokyo, opening a dedicated Japan Office to tighten ties with Japanese manufacturers and smooth the path for those expanding or scaling operations in the Philippines.
HCLTech expanding operations, widening footprint
HCL Technologies Philippines Inc. is gearing up for a bigger footprint, with plans to expand operations over the next two to three years and funnel more global accounts into the country, according to the Board of Investments.
Holiday hiring falters as jobless numbers rise in December
December is usually when cash registers ring nonstop, delivery vans double-park with abandon, and seasonal jobs pop up like Christmas lights. This time, though, the Philippine labor market delivered a quieter jingle. Despite peak holiday demand, joblessness refused to melt away, hinting that even Santa’s factory may have sent a few elves home early.
