The Philippine government is moving to translate the World Bank’s Public Finance Review into concrete fiscal reforms, with economic officials stressing that better tax collection and spending will matter only if recommendations result in measurable improvements for citizens.
The Philippine government said it will act on recommendations from the World Bank’s latest Public Finance Review, putting a sharper focus on broadening the tax base, improving revenue collection and ensuring that public spending translates into measurable gains for Filipinos.
Accelerating power sector reforms could slash electricity prices, create more than 161,000 jobs and lift about 730,000 Filipinos out of poverty by 2030, with the World Bank arguing that lower energy costs may be one of the country's biggest catalysts for faster and more inclusive economic growth.
The World Bank Group has approved a USD268.6-million, or about P15.6-billion, water and sanitation project for the Philippines that is expected to create up to 46,500 jobs over the next 25 years while improving climate resilience in three island provinces.
Foreign business groups welcomed the Philippines' elevation to upper middle-income economy status as a strong endorsement of the country's economic progress, while urging the government to accelerate reforms needed to convert the milestone into sustained investment and long-term growth.
Semirara Mining and Power Corporation has challenged the Department of Energy’s latest bidding rules, warning that the revised guidelines undermine the national government's intent to foster long-term industrial productivity and resource stability.
GoTyme Bank is calling on the government to mandate open finance in the Philippines, arguing that resistance from established lenders is limiting consumers’ control over financial data and restricting access to affordable credit.
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) will highlight its locally manufactured Tamaraw public transport platform and expanding electrified vehicle lineup at two automotive exhibitions from October 22 to 24 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, reflecting its dual focus on commercial mobility and vehicle electrification.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is working to accelerate the launch of Singaporean manufacturer MNEX’s P180-million precision manufacturing facility in Batangas, with production targeted to begin in early 2027.