The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business

by Boy Villasanta It’s official. Internationally acclaimed director Lav Diaz’s historical film on the expedition of Portuguese Ferdinand Magellan in the Philippines is the country’s entry to the Best International Feature Film section of the 2026 Oscar Awards in Hollywood. This was announced last night by Paolo Villaluna, Director-General of the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP). Villaluna said that …

Mandaluyong City, Philippines, September 1, 2025 – The Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP) is proud to announce that Lav Diaz’s Magellan has been selected as the official Philippine submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. The selection was made by a committee of Filipino film industry experts approved by the Academy of Motion …

Ford Philippines brings the new Ford Territory Hybrid and the all-new Ford Mustang Mach-E closer to customers in partnership with its network of Ford dealers nationwide. Customers can catch Ford’s newly launched electrified vehicles in various mall displays and in Ford dealerships, allowing them to see the vehicles up close and personal and appreciate their bold design and segment-leading features.  …

The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines is confident that the country’s electric vehicle sector would continue to gear up towards more sustainable, innovative, and transformative mobility for more Filipinos.    This was expressed during the pre-event press conference of the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit with the theme “Charge Ahead and Ignite the Evolution” held in Bonifacio Global City …

In today’s fast-paced economy, commercial vehicles are more than machines—they are the engines of national progress. From delivering goods to transporting people across the archipelago, these workhorses drive Philippine development. Behind each roadworthy vehicle is a dedicated after-sales professional—a BiyaHero—keeping the nation in motion. To honor modern-day heroes, Hariphil Asia Resources Inc., the official distributor of Hyundai Trucks and Buses …

Hariphil Asia Resources, Inc., the official distributor of Volvo Cars in the Philippines, is giving away a 14-day trip for two to Europe for their discerning customers to experience the brand at its most authentic—at the very heart of Sweden. Volvo Cars Philippines announced an exclusive opportunity for its customers to experience the ultimate European getaway. With the “Volvo Euro …

The VinFast VF 5, a compact electric crossover designed for urban living, continues to stand out as an ideal match for Filipino motorists looking for their first EV. The VF 5 is in the Philippine market with its blend of smart technology, youthful design, and real-world practicality. Whether for first-time car buyers, tech-savvy professionals, or young families, the VF 5 …

Jetour Auto Philippines Inc. successfully hosted its second annual Media Pet Day last Aug. 20 at the Barkhaus Eastwood in Pasig City. The event reaffirmed a heartwarming tradition, bringing together media partners, their beloved furry friends, and the Jetour family for a memorable day dedicated to celebrating bonds and championing responsible pet ownership. More than an event, the annual gathering …

By Tracy Cabrera The documentary Food Delivery: Fresh From the West Philippine Sea is proving to be more than just a film—it has become a catalyst for awakening. During its recent block screening, the theater was charged with emotion as young audiences watched the harrowing plight of Filipino fishermen and the repeated harassment they endure at sea. What followed was …

Consumers may soon enjoy some breathing space in their food budgets as the Department of Agriculture (DA) announced it is shelving plans to impose a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) on pork and chicken this September, citing a steady decline in market prices. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. made the announcement Friday during a joint market inspection with the …