The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business

The Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) officially turned over 1.36 billion shares of common stock worth P136.2 billion to the National Government, following the unprecedented capital infusions extended to the Bank since June 2016.  President Rodrigo R. Duterte received the stock certification from Finance Secretary and LANDBANK Chairman Carlos G. Dominguez III, together with LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia …

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) officially launched their satellite branch at SM Southmall’s Government Services Express (GSE) on March 24 to make drivers’ license renewals easier and more accessible to Southies. Southies can now renew their licenses and apply for student permits in the mall, all while shopping and doing other errands. They just need to bring their medical certificates …

President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law amendments to the 85-year-old Public Service Act that would allow foreigners full ownership of local airlines, telecommunications, mass media, railways and logistical or shipping operators. Republic Act 11659 removed the 40% equity cap on foreigners in public utility companies, while aiming to generate jobs and spur activity in the aftermath of the pandemic’s grave …

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin E. Diokno reported that the Philippines’ outstanding external debt (EDT) remains at a prudent level as its ratio to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) recorded at 27.0% at end-December 2021. The ratio remains one of the lowest as compared to other ASEAN member countries. The country’s EDT expressed as a percentage of GDP is a …

All local government units now maintain their deposit accounts with the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK). This enables LANDBANK to further expand its role as the biggest development partner of the LGU sector towards inclusive local development. LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia C. Borromeo said, “LGUs are LANDBANK’s primary partners on the ground in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth. …

The Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) took home its 3rd Grand Anvil at the 57th Anvil Awards, specifically for its program that provided supplemental aid to 10 community pantries in Metro Manila.  Organized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), the Grand Anvil is given to a public relations program which stands out among the Gold Anvil winners. Considered …

Quezon City, Dasmariñas City, Cavite, and Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya topped the list of nine local government units (LGUs) that were recognized for their outstanding achievement in issuing Safety Seals to business establishments. The three LGUs were cited during the Recognition of Best Performing Local Government Units in the Safety Seal Certification Program, VaxCertPH Program, and National Vaccination Day held last …

PHirst Park Homes, Inc. (PPHI) – the first home buyer brand of Century Properties Group and Mitsubishi Corporation – kicked off its series of project launches in 2022 with the opening of PHirst Park Homes Naic, a 21.2-hectare development that offers 1,948 units with a total sales value of P3.5-B. Located along Governor’s Drive in Brgy. Halang, Sabang, and San …

The Japanese embassy is calling on more Japanese companies to invest in the Philippines following the recent signing of a law that amends the Public Service Act (PSA), allowing full foreign ownership in major business sectors. Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko lauded the signing of the PSA by President Duterte, saying the new law, together with the Foreign …

For the longest time, side hustles have always been an integral part of the Filipino working culture. Most commonly known to Filipinos as ‘raket’, these are sideline jobs undertaken for extra income. You see them everywhere – from your neighbor offering personal care products, a co-worker selling goodies and snacks at the office, or your former classmate with an online …