Most banks upheld their existing credit standards in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Findings from the Senior Bank Loan Officers’ Survey (SLOS), released on Friday, revealed that the majority of surveyed banks kept their lending policies unchanged for both business and consumer loans, based on the modal approach. However, using the diffusion …

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $500 million policy-based loan to support the Philippine government’s efforts in expanding labor market programs and boosting workforce skills. According to the ADB, the Business and Employment Recovery Program-Subprogram 2 aims to equip Filipino workers with industry-relevant skills, enhance women’s participation in the labor force through technical and vocational education and training …

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will not only continue but also expand the agency’s active transport projects to make roads inclusive even for cyclists and pedestrians. Transportation Undersecretary Jesus Ferdinand Ortega said DOTr will continue establishing bike lanes throughout the country as well as bike facilities for cyclists and bike commuters. “Tuloy po ang programa ng bike lanes. On the …

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is advancing the Philippines’ commitment to maritime safety and environmental protection by its recent hosting of the National Workshop on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Civil Liability and Compensation Conventions. Held in collaboration with the IMO, the workshop was conducted January 27 to 31, 2025, in Pasay City. The event highlights MARINA’s leadership in aligning …

The Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT), through its Special Operations Group (SOG), conducted an anti-colorum operation across different locations in Cavite and Laguna, focusing on unauthorized transport services, ensuring compliance with transport regulations, and promoting road safety. The surprise operation resulted in five Temporary Operators Permit (TOPs) issued for eight violations, including – one case of driving …

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is actively pursuing maritime projects and initiatives, prioritizing the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers, safeguarding our coastal territory, and modernizing port infrastructure. DOTr said a P16.9 billion New Cebu International Container Port (NCICP) – to be constructed in Consolacion, Cebu – will decongest the existing Cebu Base Port, while improving cargo handling capacity and …

Airline companies in Asia Pacific, including those in the Philippines, are set to maintain their international capacity growth trajectory in 2025, according to the Centre for Asia-Pacific Aviation (CAPA). While surpassing pre-pandemic levels is anticipated, CAPA said this growth would be tempered by ongoing aircraft availability issues. “Airlines in this region are collectively already close to 2019 capacity levels in …

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) completed a crucial segment of the Baguio City Bypass Road Project, a vital initiative aimed at alleviating traffic congestion along Major Mane and Kennon Road. Newly completed segment covers 0.44-kilometer of the 4.374-kilometer bypass road. This section features widened curves, concrete retaining walls, open canal for water drainage, sidewalks, curb, and gutter, …

Sunshine Place collaborates once more with artist Sir Jen Consumido to offer Fundamentals of Drawing Workshop from February 4 – March 11,2025.  The course focuses on an academic approach in learning about traditional drawing, aiming to impart knowledge and techniques for developing drawing skills using various traditional media.  The objective is to enhance observation skills, while also guiding students to …

BEYOND ELLIPTICAL By Rose Marie de la Cruz Former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Cielito Habito (now a columnist for Inquirer) wrote recently about the youth and agriculture and why it is so difficult to attract young people to go into farming (not as farm laborer) —  a path where they could become their own bosses and where their creativity and curiosity …