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 Japan Credit Rating Agency, Ltd. (JCR) has affirmed the Philippines’ sovereign credit rating at “A-” with a “stable” outlook, reflecting confidence in the country’s macroeconomic stability and growth trajectory.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has urged MRT-3 maintenance provider Sumitomo Corp. of Japan to expedite safety testing for 48 unused China-made Dalian light rail vehicles (LRVs) to help expand the train line’s capacity.
More Filipino children will now be eligible for Kindergarten as the Department of Education (DepEd) revised the age cut-off policy for admission, expanding the window for learners turning five years old.
Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates is positioning the Philippines as a strategic expansion hub for Chinese companies aiming to grow their footprint in Southeast Asia.