Top News
Cautious optimism defines Filipino finances in 2H
Filipinos are heading into the second half of 2025 with a blend of financial hope and prudence, according to TransUnion’s Q2 2025 Consumer Pulse Study, which highlights a growing focus on income growth, debt management, and access to credit despite persistent economic pressures.
Inflation edges higher on housing, education
Headline inflation in the Philippines rose to 1.4 percent in June, up from May’s six-year low of 1.3 percent, driven by increased housing and utilities costs—especially electricity—and a seasonal increase in education services following the start of classes.
Outstanding government debt up slightly in May
The outstanding debt of the Philippine government rose to P16.92 trillion at the end of May 2025, up nearly 1 percent from April, according to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr). Despite the increase, the agency described the debt level as “manageable,” citing steady market confidence and prudent borrowing strategies.
WESM prices drop 3.9% in June, easing power costs
The average electricity price at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) declined by 3.9 percent in June, bringing the national rate down to ₱3.86 per kilowatt hour (kWh) from ₱4.01/kWh in May, according to data from the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP).
U.S. slaps 20% tariff on Vietnam under reciprocal trade push
The United States will impose a 20 percent tariff on Vietnamese imports under a new trade agreement, down from an initially planned 46 percent rate set to take effect next week.
