Economy
AI adoption, travel boost Asia-Pacific growth – corporate survey
The Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI) forecasts steady growth for Asia Pacific in 2026, even as the global economy faces tariff shifts, rising AI investment, and changing consumer habits. Global GDP is expected to ease slightly to 3.1 percent, down from 3.2 percent in 2025.
ADB clears $400M loan to fuel Philippines’ business climate overhaul
The Asian Development Bank has approved a USD400-million policy-based loan to drive government reforms aimed at positioning the Philippines as premier investment destination in Asia and the Pacific.
ADB trims Philippine growth forecast amid flood-control probes
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has downgraded its growth forecast for the Philippine economy for this year and in 2026, contrasting with its upward revisions for the rest of developing Asia. The Manila-based regional lender cited reduced public infrastructure spending following investigations into controversial flood-control projects as a key drag on economic momentum.
FDI growth steady in September, signaling potential job gains
Foreign direct investment (FDI) into the country reached US$320 million in September 2025, with Japan remaining the largest investor and manufacturing as the top recipient sector, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said on Wednesday.
Philippine labor force momentum builds despite rise in jobless rate
The labor market strengthened in October as more Filipinos streamed into the workforce, even as unemployment rose from last year’s lows, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed Wednesday.
