The Department of Agriculture (DA) declared a food security emergency on Monday that allowed the National Food Authority (NFA) to release buffer stocks for public sale. The declaration, signed by DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., comes in the wake of persistent price increases that have not aligned with global market trends or previous tariff reductions.
The Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) has raised alarms over the Konektadong Pinoy bill, a key legislative measure designed to expand internet access and encourage new players in the telecom sector.
Foreign investments registered with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) through authorized agent banks (AABs) took the high path in 2024, with net inflows totaling USD2.1 billion, a sharp turnaround from the previous year's outflows. This marked a significant 39.2 percent increase from 2023, which saw USD12.9 billion in investments.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) recorded mixed movements in the prices of agricultural commodities in mid-January, with potential implications for inflation. January inflation data are due 5 February.
The Philippine economy showed resilience in 2024, posting a 5.6 percent year-on-year growth in gross domestic product (GDP), despite challenges such as the contraction in agriculture due to El Niño and a series of storms. However, this growth fell short of the government’s target of between 6.0 percent and 6.5 percent.
The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) is seeking fare waivers and stronger passenger assistance from Middle Eastern airlines as regional tensions disrupt flight routes and send international ticket prices sharply higher.
A Thai stevia processing company is studying a potential USD30-million investment in the Philippines, signaling growing investor interest in the country’s role in the fast-expanding natural sweetener market.
The Philippine government has begun repatriating overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from several Middle East countries through chartered and commercial flights as tensions in the region continue to disrupt travel routes.
The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a measure expanding the franchise area of More Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power), sending the bill to the Senate for further deliberation and moving a step closer to widening electricity distribution coverage in Iloilo province.