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.
The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) has named JG Summit Holdings Inc. President and CEO Lance Y. Gokongwei and PHINMA Corporation President and COO Dr. Chito B. Salazar as its 2026 Management Persons of the Year, recognizing their contributions to corporate transformation, education and inclusive economic growth.
The Department of Finance (DOF) is pursuing lower remittance costs and faster access to development financing, targeting transaction expenses that weigh on Filipino households and administrative delays that can slow government programs.
FAST Logistics Group is looking to expand its presence in Cebu following its return to the Chiongbian family, sharpening its focus on the province as a base for strengthening supply chains and helping local businesses reach markets nationwide.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed finance and investment veteran Victor Alfonso Limlingan as president and chief executive officer of the Social Security System (SSS), effective October 16, 2026, placing loan expansion and pension fund investment performance at the center of his incoming agenda.