The Philippine economy is headed for a sharper slowdown in 2026 as elevated energy costs, weak public investment and subdued business confidence weigh on domestic demand, the World Bank said, while lowering its growth outlook for next year.
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.
The Department of Finance (DOF) is seeking legislative support for a tax reform package that would increase workers’ take-home pay, reduce tax pressures on micro and small businesses, and channel revenues from health-related taxes into essential public services.
Visa has partnered with USSC Money Services (UMSI), the Department of Tourism, and local governments to roll out digital payment services across Siargao, just in time for the island’s first World Surf League Championship Tour.
Ayala Corporation commemorated 50 years of public listing at the Philippine Stock Exchange on November 9, reaffirming its commitment to long-term value creation and national development through operational efficiency, disciplined investment, and global partnerships.
Starting November 5, 2026, Globe and TM subscribers can now use the BPI app without incurring mobile data charges, removing one of the biggest barriers to digital banking for millions of Filipinos.