The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business

Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has signed a strategic agreement with LANDBANK,  a policy bank driving inclusive and sustainable development and among the country’s largest banks in terms of assets. This will expand digital payment acceptance across key government channels, enabling fast and secure digital transactions for various government services and supporting the government’s vision of a cash-lite …

BANGKOK —Gilas Pilipinas overcame a 13-point deficit and a hostile environment to overcome host Thailand 70-64 and retain the men’s basketball gold in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games on Friday here.  A decisive 13-0 run in the fourth anchored by Jamie Malonzo enabled Gilas to take control of the contest before the team weathered a last-ditch attempt by Thailand to …

PATTAYA—Alas Pilipinas Women joined Team Philippines’ history-makers in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games with their stunning dethroning of long-reigning beach volleyball queens Thailand in their own kingdom. Faced with the gargantuan challenge in their very first finals stint against the seemingly unbeatable eight-time champs, Alas 1’s Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons and Alas 2’s Sunny Villapando and Dij Rodriguez responded …

BANGKOK—The Philippine Blu Girls reasserted their dominance in women’s softball after edging out Singapore, 4-1, to win the gold in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games on Friday in Pathum Thani. The Blu Girls scored three runs in the sixth to take the lead before starting pitcher Royevel Palma completed an outstanding performance on the mound to capture a record-extending 11th …

BANGKOK — Eumir Marcial raised his fists as the bout ended — not only as a celebration of his victory but also a symbol of relief for Philippine boxers who, for the entire week, have been battered by questionable decisions and unfair judgment. The Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist finally ended the string of futility for Pinoy pugs, taking down Maikhel …

The Philippines’ national esports team, SIBOL, wrapped up its 33rd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) campaign with their four consecutive gold in the Men’s Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) event and back-to-back silver medal in the Women’s division.  “Generally, the results were better than we expected. Coming into this, I think we had realistic expectations. To be honest, I think …

One Million for Every Hero  Casino Plus is bringing the Christmas spirit of giving into the digital space with the launch of One Million Pesos For Every Hero. This meaningful holiday initiative empowers users to support extraordinary Filipinos simply by logging in.  From December 15 to 31, every daily login on the platform will trigger a ₱1 donation from Casino …

Secosana proudly presents the Heritage Collection: an exquisite range of eight suede bags that masterfully reimagine timeless classics for today’s discerning modern woman. Available in rich, sophisticated tones—Black, Chocolate, Wine Red, and Mocha—these versatile designs effortlessly enhance any ensemble, making them perfect for every occasion, from casual outings to elegant soirées. During the exclusive launch event at SM Mall of …

[Manila, Philippines] EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB) marked its 12th anniversary with an outreach initiative that reached schools located in far-flung communities and areas affected by Typhoons Tino and Uwan. The program ran from November 5 to 20, 2025, covering selected public schools across Regions 5, 6, 7, and 11. A total of 590 learners and 49 teachers received Jollibee meals, …

CIMB Bank Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to financial inclusion and social empowerment through a day-long initiative combining financial education and grassroots community support, underscoring the Bank’s belief that access to knowledge and resources is key to long-term economic resilience. On the morning of December 10, 2025, CIMB Bank PH hosted an online financial literacy webinar attended by micro, small, and …