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.
St. Luke’s Medical Center–Global City has successfully performed its first native balloon-expandable Edwards SAPIEN 3 heart valve implantation, expanding minimally invasive treatment options for Filipino patients with severe heart valve disease.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is improving connectivity to Siargao Island through an expanded airport passenger terminal and upgraded port facilities, aiming to accommodate growing tourism demand and provide travelers with better air and sea transport options.
The National Privacy Commission (NPC) and Globe Telecom are strengthening efforts to protect Filipino children from online privacy risks and promote responsible use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI).
Big E Food Corporation, maker of Lemon Square cakes and pastries, is strengthening its presence in Batangas with a new manufacturing facility and the opening of its 150th retail store at LIMA Estate.