The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business

Sleep scientists note that some of the body’s most essential repair work happens during rest. While we sleep, muscles recover, hormones regulate, and the immune system strengthens—quiet processes that prepare us for the day ahead. Yet despite these benefits, quality sleep remains one of the most overlooked aspects of daily wellness. While homeowners carefully design living rooms and kitchens, the …

The Philippines will have ample food supply at least until July, the Department of Agriculture (DA) assured last week, easing concerns over possible price spikes amid tensions in the Middle East. “Definitely, walang issue sa supply. I can safely say hanggang June or even July, walang issue sa supply of almost everything (there’s no issue in supply. I can safely …

The Philippines is pushing to seal a landmark free trade agreement with the European Union by the latter half of 2026, as negotiations gain fresh momentum. Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said both sides are working toward wrapping up talks “probably the start of the second half of this year,” signaling a faster pace in discussions. “We are looking …

The Philippine National Police on Friday assured the public it is fully prepared to keep peace and order amid concerns that rising fuel prices could trigger more theft and robbery. PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the current economic climate is unlikely to spark a surge in crime, but emphasized that the police force is ready for any scenario. …

Amid the ripple effects of rising global oil prices, Bam Aquino on Friday called for targeted government assistance to help middle-income Filipinos who are often left out of traditional aid programs. Aquino warned that those above the poverty line—such as minimum wage earners and small business owners—remain highly vulnerable to price shocks despite not qualifying for government support. “Iyong mga …

The government has formally filed four tax evasion cases against businessman Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya before the Court of Tax Appeals, clearing earlier delays caused by a motion for reconsideration. Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon said the motion has been dismissed, paving the way for the Department of Justice to proceed with charges involving alleged tax evasion and failure to file …

The government is reviewing the conditions for a possible reduction or suspension of excise taxes on fuel, Malacañang said, as global oil prices remain volatile. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier stressed that the proposal involves a “very complicated calculation,” requiring a careful assessment of multiple factors before any decision is made. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro explained that the President …

The Bureau of Customs will hold another public auction of high-end vehicles worth over ₱265 million, offering bidders a chance to acquire 11 luxury units through sealed bidding. The auction is set at 10 a.m. on March 27 at the POM Conference Room in Port Area, Manila, with a total floor price of ₱265,996,987.32. Prospective buyers may inspect the vehicles …

A key House panel has approved a substitute measure aimed at modernizing the country’s civil registry system, addressing gaps in birth and death records that continue to affect millions of Filipinos. The House Committee on Population and Family Relations consolidated over 29 proposals into a single bill, including House Bill No. 5213 authored by Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, along …

Commuters riding Light Rail Transit Line 2 and Metro Rail Transit Line 3 will enjoy a 50-percent fare discount starting today, as the government rolls out relief measures amid rising fuel costs. The Department of Transportation said the reduced fares will remain in effect until further notice. Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the move is aimed at easing commuters’ …