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.
Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has pledged strong support for Filipino hog raisers suffering from steep financial losses caused by cheap foreign pork and dropping farmgate prices.
Consumers and business owners face another week of contrasting fuel prices as global supply tensions continue to ripple through local pumps. Gasoline prices are projected to decrease by up to ₱1.00 per liter, offering mild relief to private motorists, while diesel prices are expected to rise significantly by up to ₱3.00 per liter, according to estimates from Jetti Petroleum.
DigiPlus Interactive Corp. aims to launch as many as 60 new games next year, expanding its lineup as competition heats up in the Philippine online gaming space. The company is also stepping up its focus on original, locally developed titles rather than relying on foreign content, setting it apart from many industry peers.
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has confirmed analog television broadcasts in Mega Manila will officially cease on November 22, 2026, marking a major milestone in the country’s shift to digital TV. Deputy Commissioner Alvin Blanco said the target date is firm, and that television networks have been preparing public service announcements and information materials to help people get ready for the change.