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 300 elementary students in San Juan City received school supplies and access to new reading spaces as the One Meralco Foundation (OMF) expanded its Balik Eskwela program to Salapan Integrated School.
When storms approach, Filipino families instinctively act: umbrellas within reach, supplies checked, gadgets charged, and disruptions anticipated. It is a proven habit—when the future is unclear, being ready changes everything.
As part of its 75th anniversary and Project MITHI’s second year, Security Bank and partners planted nearly 500 mangrove seedlings in Barangay Bungro, moving toward a 7,500-seedling target this year. The event included environmental education for children and financial literacy training for adults to strengthen community resilience.
Japan, as a long-standing observer and partner in the Mindanao peace process, welcomed the successful conduct of the first-ever Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election held on September 14.