The Board of Investments (BOI) has reported a remarkable increase in project registrations from Chinese investors this year, despite ongoing maritime tensions between Manila and Beijing.  According to a recent announcement, the BOI approved projects totaling over P1 billion from Chinese sources between January and September 2024. This figure represents a staggering 237 percent increase compared to the same period …

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the British Council, celebrated the resounding success of the Creative Nation Summit 2024.  Held at the Rizal Park Hotel from September 30 to October 01, the summit seized the potential of the Philippine creative industries to drive economic growth and …

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has pledged to assist the Philippine government in securing more development grants aimed at promoting resilient infrastructure projects, according to the Department of Finance (DOF). In a statement released last week, the DOF noted that this commitment was made during the AIIB’s annual Board of Governors meeting, held from September 21 to 27, 2024, …

In the first quarter of 2024, Pag-IBIG Fund members collectively saved a record P28.75 billion, setting the highest amount ever saved in the agency’s history during a first quarter, according to top officials. This represents a 36% increase—roughly P7.66 billion more than the P21.09 billion saved during the same period in 2023. Part of the total savings collections is the …

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) recognized nine institutional partners of its South Luzon Regional Office (SLRO) during the 2024 Outstanding BSP Stakeholders Appreciation Ceremony (OBSAC) held on September 23, 2024 in Lucena City.  BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat thanked the awardees and said, “At the core of our partnership is a common goal: a resilient economy that improves the …

To address urgent financial needs during emergencies, Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) has expanded its available loan packages for businesses and individuals affected by calamities and natural disasters to help facilitate and fast-track rebuilding efforts. Under the enhanced LANDBANK CARES+ (Community Assistance and REintegration Support Plus) Lending Program, affected farmers and fishers, cooperatives, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), corporations, and electric …

Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, officially marked the start of the celebration of its 29th anniversary this September 28, Saturday at the Eldar’s Theater. This year’s celebration reflects on how EK stood the test of time and imprinted its legacy among every Filipino family by providing transformational experiences across generations ever since …

SM Advantage Card (SMAC), the loyalty program of SM Retail, turned over P14 million to the SM Foundation’s education program on Oct. 1, 2024.  The donation, raised through the sale of SMAC cards and point donations from members, will fund 35 scholars for the upcoming school year 2025-2026, with 15 scholars from Luzon, 10 from Visayas, and 10 from Mindanao. …

Bioessence marked its 30th anniversary with a grand celebration that honored the brand’s journey and commitment to “Caring Beyond Beauty.” The milestone event, which championed Bioessence’s contribution in providing world-class beauty and wellness services, took place at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan in Quezon City on September 26, 2024. Thousands of guests have enjoyed an evening of entertainment, surprises, and a …

As part of its flagship advocacy “Toka Toka”, East Zone concessionaire Manila Water encourages its customers to take advantage of the monthly desludging service offered by the Company. Toka Toka is the first and only environmental movement in the Philippines that advocates proper management of wastewater in every household as an important share (or “toka”) in reviving our rivers and …