The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is stepping up support for exporters while keeping a close watch on global developments that could disrupt trade and logistics, as Philippine exports continue their growth streak.
The Philippines’ external trade in goods rose 10.7 percent year on year to USD18.34 billion in February 2026, driven by solid export growth but a faster expansion in imports that widened the trade deficit.
The Philippines’ agricultural trade deficit narrowed sharply in December, buoyed by a strong rebound in farm exports and a pullback in imports, offering a late-year boost to the country’s external trade position.
The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) opened 2026 with solid investment momentum, approving 18 new projects worth P12.86 billion during its first Board meeting of the year.
Higher US tariffs and stubbornly high production costs are tightening the vise on Philippine garment exporters, even as shipments are estimated to have topped USD1 billion in 2025.
Conglomerate San Miguel Corporation has launched a P30 billion preferred share offering, with funds set to go toward debt refinancing and key infrastructure projects including the proposed New Manila International Airport in Bulacan. The Securities and Exchange Commission gave approval for the offer the previous Tuesday. The shares will be open for subscription until July 23, with listing on the Philippine Stock Exchange scheduled for August 3.
Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions Inc., a major fiber internet provider, announced on Wednesday it has expanded its share buyback program with an additional P5 billion to boost shareholder value. The move was approved by the company’s board of directors. Chief financial officer Robert Leo Yu confirmed the extra funds will not disrupt daily operations or planned spending, including ongoing network expansion across the Visayas and Mindanao. He noted the decision reflects strong confidence in the firm’s worth and its ability to reward investors while maintaining heavy investments in national fiber infrastructure, supported by a solid financial position. Actual purchases will depend on market conditions and follow securities rules. Converge shares closed at P9.25 each on Wednesday.
Electricity consumers will see a small rise in transmission charges on their July 2026 bills, driven mainly by higher ancillary service fees, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) announced on Wednesday.
The Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) urged the government to accelerate mining permit efficiencies as Indonesia’s upcoming 2026 quota decisions highlight the global need for a more diversified critical minerals supply chain.