Economy

As consumers become more selective and shopping journeys increasingly blur between online and offline channels, Philippine retail leaders are betting that experience—not just price or convenience—will define the industry's next phase of growth.

The Philippines is strengthening its credentials as a hub for high-value manufacturing after Swiss dental technology firm Ivoclar Vivadent expanded its local operations with a new production facility in Batangas, signaling continued foreign investor confidence in the country’s skilled workforce and industrial base.

Philippine mangoes have long traveled overseas, filling supermarket shelves and satisfying homesick Filipinos abroad. But increasingly, the country’s signature fruit is reaching new corners of the world and finding a place not just as a familiar export, but as a premium product for global consumers.

The country’s outstanding external debt eased slightly to US$147.35 billion as of end-March 2026, from US$147.65 billion in the previous quarter, keeping the overall debt burden well within manageable levels.

Energy and agriculture leaders warn of significant risks to fuel supply, prices, and food security after Iran announced it is closing the Strait of Hormuz, and threatening to fire on any vessel attempting to transit. This development follows reported attacks by the United States against Iran, according to a Reuters report.