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.
Manila will host KinoFest 2026 — The German Film Festival for the first time October 15–18 at GH Ortigas Cinema, Greenhills Mall. This marks the event’s fifth edition, bringing free, first-come, first-served screenings to Filipino viewers.
Corruption and inflation may have cost the Philippine economy an estimated P2.75 trillion over the 12 months to the second quarter of 2026, Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said Thursday, as lawmakers launched an inquiry into the country’s slowing growth and weakening investment.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) wrapped up its annual Economic and Financial Learning Program in Legazpi City this week, delivering two days of practical financial education to over 2,400 students and teachers while signaling a broader policy shift toward long-term behavioral change in financial inclusion.
The Department of Agriculture confirmed Thursday it may use P9.7 billion in Special Allotment Release Orders to support farmers and fisherfolk facing rising fuel prices and the expected severe effects of El Niño.