The World Bank Group has approved a record USD1.02-billion financing package for the Philippines, backing reforms aimed at lowering electricity costs, strengthening water security and accelerating the country's transition to cleaner energy.
The Philippine government is pinning its next employment surge on three high-growth industries—business process outsourcing (BPO), semiconductors, and renewable energy, said Finance Secretary Frederick Go.
The World Bank expects Philippine economic growth to slow to 3.7 percent in 2026, down from 4.4 percent in 2025, according to its East Asia and Pacific (EAP) outlook released on April 8.
At least five million Filipino farmers are poised to benefit from a USD1-billion World Bank financing package aimed at accelerating a nationwide shift toward higher productivity, diversification, and climate resilience—an overhaul long seen as critical to stabilizing food supply and rural incomes.
The World Bank has approved an USD800-million financing package for the Philippines aimed at strengthening fiscal resilience, improving the business climate and equipping Filipino workers with skills needed for higher-quality jobs.
The Philippines will adopt India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) technology as part of a push to modernize the country’s digital payments system, starting with faster government aid disbursements through Land Bank of the Philippines and potentially extending to cross-border payments.
EastWest wrapped up a successful run as the official credit card partner for the 2026 Philippine Travel Mart (PTM), delivering exclusive deals and flexible payment solutions to attendees throughout the three-day event. Held from September 4 to 6 at SMX Convention Center Manila, the country’s longest-running travel trade exhibition drew over 20,000 visitors and nearly 300 exhibitors featuring destinations, accommodations, tours, and travel experiences from across the Philippines.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has issued a public advisory warning against fraudulent schemes where individuals falsely present themselves as BSP officials or employees to deceive people.
Smart Communications has introduced the Smart Home WiFi SIM 99, a dedicated card designed to work with open-line home WiFi routers, as well as compatible Smart and PLDT Home WiFi devices with expired or inactive SIMs. Priced at just P99, the package includes 2GB of non-expiring data, creating an accessible option for households seeking reliable internet access.