Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, chairman of Ayala Corp., struck a cautiously optimistic tone on the Philippines’ economic outlook, projecting a rebound as near-term risks begin to ease and structural strengths remain intact.
The Philippines faces a markedly weaker growth trajectory after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) cut its 2026 expansion forecast to 4.1 percent, citing intensifying global shocks and a softer domestic backdrop.
Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the looming effects of El Niño are emerging as twin headwinds to Philippine growth, with remittances and inflation pressures forming a potentially volatile mix.
Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan cautioned lawmakers that a prolonged Middle East conflict could trigger a severe economic shock in the Philippines, with surging oil prices threatening to reverse gains in poverty reduction.
Treasury bill yields continued to ease at Monday’s auction as investors positioned for a possible shift toward monetary easing by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) amid weakening economic momentum.
More than 20,000 learners and 700 educators across 13 schools and learning institutions now have greater access to digital tools through more than 180 desktop computers and laptops donated by BDO Foundation.
Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) has clinched first place among Philippine banks and securities firms in both the Local Currency Bonds and G3 Bonds categories of The Asset Benchmark Research Awards 2026, affirming its leadership across domestic and international bond markets.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) are actively looking for funding to buy additional trainsets for LRT Line 2, a key move aimed at cutting down long lines that have formed at stations as passenger numbers keep growing. Right now, only eight trainsets are running on the line—one is having its Train Operating Control Panel upgraded, while another remains under repair—creating a gap between what commuters need and what the system can provide.
BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan—Boracay already has the white sand, turquoise waters, and postcard sunsets. Kevin Wong is betting billions of pesos that it can offer visitors something more, and persuade them to stay longer while opening their wallets a little wider.