December, 2024

• 16 December

  ADB approves $30-M loan for PPP projects

  

  The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 30 million loan to support public-private partnership (PPP) projects in the Philippines. The loan will replenish the Project Development and Monitoring Facility (PDMF), managed by the Public-Private Partnership Center (PPPC), which aids in preparing and structuring PPP projects. It will also enhance the capacity of government agencies and local government units …

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• 16 December

  Fitch Ratings sees banks’ NPL ratio improving in 2025

  

  Fitch Ratings predicts that the non-performing loan (NPL) ratio of Philippine banks will improve in 2025, driven by strong economic growth and lower interest rates. According to Fitch, “We expect NPL ratio improvements across five out of 14 larger APAC (Asia Pacific) markets in 2025 before rising to nine in 2026.”  The Philippines, along with India and Vietnam, is expected …

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• 16 December

  Sustainable corporate governance key for inclusive growth – Recto

  

  Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto championed the central role of sound corporate governance anchored in sustainability in fostering inclusive growth across Asian economies during the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)-Asia Roundtable on December 11, 2024. “For we believe that a strong corporate governance framework is the very foundation upon which a thriving investment climate and well-functioning capital markets …

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• 16 December

  Security Bank recognized for excellent financial market

  

  Security Bank and its investment banking arm, Security Bank Capital, received multiple accolades from The Asset Benchmark Research team for 2024, including top rankings in several categories.  The awards, presented recently at the Four Seasons in Singapore, recognized the top performers in the financial services industry. Security Bank earned second place for Top Investment House – Philippines and Top Sellside …

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• 16 December

  Adriatic Gate Container Terminal curbs noise pollution

  

  Adriatic Gate Container Terminal (AGCT) has taken a big step towards more community-friendly operations by installing white noise reversing alarms on two of its rail-mounted gantry cranes (RMG). The RMGs, selected for their proximity to residential areas, now feature an advanced alarm system that reduces noise pollution.  White noise reversing alarms emit a softer, more localized sound resembling a gentle …

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• 16 December

  PhilHealth Benefits Development Protocol cited by ASEAN Social Security Association

  

  The PhilHealth Benefits Development Planning Protocol has been awarded with the “Continuous Improvement Recognition” during the recently concluded 41st ASEAN Social Security Association (ASSA) meetings. The Benefits Development Planning Protocol was acknowledged for its significant contributions and transformative impact in ensuring that PhilHealth benefit packages are equitably designed and developed, while also providing responsive benefits that translates to adequate financial …

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• 16 December

  Low adoption of solar tech not just due to cost

  

  Despite the immense potential for solar energy in urban areas of the Philippines, the technology’s upfront cost and a lack of public awareness of its benefits remain major hurdles to its widespread use. Government subsidies and promotional campaigns are seen to help boost its adoption.  A new study from the Ateneo de Manila University highlights the persistent challenges preventing widespread …

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• 16 December

  BDO Foundation, TESDA and BSP unveil online financial ed modules

  

  BDO Foundation, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) recently launched free online financial education (fin ed) modules for the benefit of millions of technical-vocational learners nationwide. Co-developed by BDO Foundation and the BSP, these modules are now available to the public through the TESDA Online Program at e-tesda.gov.ph. The first three …

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• 16 December

  LANDBANK inaugurates ‘phygital’ branch

  

  CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Misamis Oriental – LANDBANK continues to elevate and redefine banking with the inauguration of its ‘phygital’ branch, highlighting the Bank’s commitment to delivering a more modern, convenient, and delightful customer experience. The LANDBANK Masterson Phygital Branch features a refreshed look and a blend of high-touch and high-tech banking, that provide an efficient fusion of physical and …

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• 16 December

  DTI warns consumers of false sales promotions

  

  Davao City, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has reminded consumers to exercise caution when participating in sales promotions offered by various businesses. Given the surge of enticing offers and discounts, especially during this holiday season, consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and ensure that promotional activities are legitimate and comply with fair trade laws. To confirm a promotion’s …

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