Business groups are calling for tougher governance, faster digital reforms, and sustained infrastructure spending as the Philippines looks to reboot growth in 2026 after the economy slowed to 3 percent in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Business groups welcomed the signing of the Philippines–United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), calling it a strategic milestone that broadens trade reach, strengthens investment flows, and opens new pathways for exporters and small businesses.
The newly installed head of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) is placing digitalization at the core of his agenda, arguing that stronger connectivity and smarter systems could unlock growth for millions of small businesses—and improve the country’s overall investment appeal.
Ferdinand “Perry” Ferrer, chairman and chief executive officer of EMS Group of Companies, has been named the incoming president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), succeeding Enunina Mangio.
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) Group has secured three agreements with Japanese companies to explore infrastructure-resilience and energy-efficiency projects at major economic hubs in Luzon, as the Philippines seeks to deepen Japanese investment beyond individual facilities.
As the nation marks Filipino Elderly Week (Oct 1–7), the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) reaffirms stronger commitment to its more than 600,000 pensioners and retirees—rolling out improved benefits, fairer rules, and simpler, fully digital services to boost financial security and ease of use.
Cebuana Lhuillier is expanding its technology-enabled services with the rollout of Cash Accepting Machines (CAMS) across its nationwide branch network, giving customers another option for routine financial transactions while retaining access to in-person assistance.
AC Health is expanding its Japanese-inspired pharmacy concept with the opening of a second St. Joseph Drug Powered by SUGI (SJS) store, four months after the format debuted at One Ayala Mall in Makati City.