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Philippines keeps strong dollar buffer despite risks
The Philippines maintained a strong external financial buffer as gross international reserves (GIR) settled at USD104.1 billion as of end-April 2026, giving the country ample protection against global market volatility, rising import costs and external debt pressures.
Output growth slows to near-pandemic low in 1Q
The economy grew by 2.8 percent in the first quarter of 2026, slowing from 3 percent in the previous quarter and falling short of the government’s expectations of 3.5 percent growth, according to official data.
Peso slide drives Philippine debt to record in March
The Philippines’ outstanding national government debt ballooned to a record P18.49 trillion as of end-March 2026, as a sharp depreciation of the peso against the US dollar significantly increased the local currency value of the country’s foreign obligations.
PH, Japan begin talks to update agriculture deal ahead of Marcos visit
The Philippines and Japan have started discussions to update their agricultural cooperation agreement ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s upcoming state visit to Japan later this month.
Unemployment eases, but labor market pressures persist
The Philippine labor market showed modest improvement in March, with unemployment easing slightly, though broader indicators suggest lingering pressures on job quality and workforce participation.
