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BOP narrows as stronger inflows boost economic activity
The nation's overall balance of payments, or what is left after its foreign exchange expenses are deducted from its earnings, recorded a smaller deficit in the first half of 2026, driven by a surge of cross-border financial activity that helped absorb a widening trade gap. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) covering January to June reveals the external balance logged a $3.9 billion deficit—representing 1.6 percent of gross domestic product—marking a noticeable improvement from the $5.6 billion shortfall, or 2.4 percent of GDP, recorded during the same period last year.
Foreign debt rises to $155 billion as officials reassure economic stability
The Philippines reported total external debt climbing to $154.93 billion as of end-June 2026, marking a notable jump from the $147.35 billion recorded just three months earlier. The increase brings the country's foreign obligations to 31.6 percent of its gross domestic product, up from 30.0 percent in the previous quarter, as borrowing outpaced overall economic growth during the period.
Gov’t seeks Australia partners to help modernize national transport system
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is seeking partnerships with the Australian government and Australian companies to help modernize the Philippines’ transportation system.
Philcement Mindanao plant starts commissioning, targets November launch
Philcement Mindanao Corp. is commissioning its P2-billion cement plant in Davao del Norte this month, with full operations targeted in October and a formal launch in November, adding up to two million metric tons of annual capacity to Mindanao’s construction materials market.
BSP chief Remolona earns third straight ‘A-‘ rating from Global Finance
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. has secured an “A-” rating in Global Finance magazine’s 2026 Central Banker Report Cards, marking his third consecutive year of receiving this distinction from the international publication.
