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.
A book launch usually ends with signed copies, photo opportunities and polite applause. This one did something more valuable. It turned into a brainstorming session on one of the Philippines' biggest creative exports, stories that can cross borders without leaving their Filipino identity behind.
Alex Eala booked the biggest final of her young career in emphatic fashion, sweeping four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, 6-4, 6-2, on Sunday to reach her first-ever WTA 500 championship match at the Mubadala DC Open.