The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has issued new guidance requiring all institutions under its supervision to strengthen safeguards against money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing when dealing with casino junket operators.
Former legislator Carlos Isagani Zarate of Bayan Muna on Tuesday criticized the Marcos administration's continued reliance on energy privatization and market liberalization, pointing to recent government data showing that the Philippines now has the highest power rates in Southeast Asia. Zarate argued that the country's staggering electricity costs are the direct result of neoliberal policies, particularly the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, which he said dismantled state control and handed public energy resources over to private corporations.
The Philippine government is strengthening its foreign direct investment (FDI) reporting system by linking key government databases, a move aimed at giving policymakers a clearer picture of investment flows while boosting transparency and investor confidence.
The Philippines is poised to remain one of Southeast Asia's top travel destinations in the second half of 2026 as travelers embrace smarter spending habits, favoring value, convenience and careful planning over impulsive vacations.