Oil markets jolted higher Thursday as geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz escalated, with Iran and the US both asserting control over one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints.
The US has committed more than P639 million in fresh health assistance to the Philippines, deepening a multibillion-peso partnership aimed at strengthening the country’s response to infectious diseases and improving health system resilience.
The Philippines is positioning itself for a larger role in the US’ critical minerals supply chain, with fresh details expected as both sides prepare for a bilateral strategic dialogue next week, Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez said.
Global markets are bracing for turbulence after the US weekend strike in Venezuela, which resulted in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and signals a temporary US administration of the country. Analysts warn the move could ripple across energy markets, with implications for the Philippine economy.
Philippine exports to the US—supercharged for months by aggressive front-loading—are expected to return to more typical levels soon as tariff pressures ease and the trade environment settles, according to Export Marketing Bureau Director Bianca Sykimte.
VinFast Philippines is strengthening its foothold in the country’s growing electric vehicle (EV) market by expanding its dealership and after-sales network, betting that easier access to service, parts, and charging will help drive wider adoption.
The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) has been recognized by the Bankers Institute of the Philippines (BAIPHIL) as one of its most active member institutions, underscoring the deposit insurer’s support for professional development and a stronger Philippine banking industry.
Visa and USSC Money Services Inc. (UMSI) are taking digital payments deeper into the Philippine MSME market with a smartphone-based solution that lets small businesses accept card payments without buying a traditional point-of-sale terminal.