Philippine inflation decelerated to 1.8 percent in March, its slowest pace since the 1.6 percent registered in May 2020 when the economic activities was challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic-related lockdowns. This decline, down from 2.1 percent in February, was largely driven by lower food prices, particularly rice, which saw a significant annual decrease.
Average rates on Treasury bills (T-bills) increased during Monday's auction, ahead of the March inflation data release and the upcoming Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) monetary policy meeting.
The US Federal Reserve decided on Wednesday to keep its benchmark interest rates unchanged, as it awaits new developments that could reshape the economic outlook and inflation trajectory.
Lower food prices in February contributed to a drop in inflation to 2.1 percent for the month. This was slower than both central bank and market forecasts, and marked a significant decline from 2.9 percent in January.
Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto hailed the significant drop in inflation to 2.1 percent in February, marking the lowest rate since October 2024. He said the reduction provides vital relief to lower-income families, particularly on food prices. The bottom 30 percent income group's inflation rate fell to 1.5 percent, further easing the financial strain on vulnerable sectors.
ACEN Corp., the green energy arm of the Ayala Group, said its wholly-owned unit, ACEN Australia, has secured access rights to the Central West-Orana Renewable Energy Zone (CWO REZ) for projects in New South Wales, which includes power generation from solar and wind energy.
The Investment & Capital Corporation of the Philippines (ICCP) has hailed the successful initial public offering (IPO) of Cebu-based Top Line Business Development Corp., calling it a milestone for regional business growth and capital markets in the Philippines.
The 55th WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF), hosted jointly by the World Trade Centers Association and WTC Marseille Provence, ignited critical discussion on global trade dynamics, with the European Union’s evolving role taking center stage amid shifting U.S. trade policy.
A Social Weather Stations poll, commissioned by Stratbase Group, revealed 4Ps and ACT-CIS leading party-list preferences just before elections. Conducted May 2-6 with 1,800 respondents, 4Ps topped with 7.67%, followed by ACT-CIS at 6.63%. Duterte Youth dropped to third with 5.88%, while Solid North Party rose to fourth (3.65%). LPGMA significantly jumped to fifth (3.04%), with Senior Citizens (2.69%), Ako Bicol (2.44%), Tingog (2.35%), FPJ Panday Bayanihan (2.14%), and Nanay (1.92%) rounding out the top ten.