Saturday 27 April 2024

Makati to become halal hub

Philippine capital’s financial center to become halal hub

Arab News
27 April 2024

  • Makati Halal Hub to act as a platform for manufacturers, traders and consumers
  • Philippines’ central business district is perceived as trendsetter for other regions

MANILA: Philippine businesses in Makati City are joining hands with the Department of Trade and Industry to make the country’s financial center a halal hub, the head of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Makati branch said on Saturday.


Makati City in Metro Manila is often referred to as the Philippines’ central business district. It has the highest concentration of banks and multinational and local corporations in the country. Foreign embassies are also based there.

The predominantly Catholic Philippines — where Muslims constitute about 10 percent of the nearly 120 million population — plans to raise 230 billion pesos ($4 billion) in investments and generate around 120,000 jobs by expanding its domestic halal industry by 2028.

The DTI signed on Friday a memorandum of understanding with PCCI Makati to join the government’s efforts to tap into the global halal market, which is estimated to be worth more than $7 trillion.

“To be able to implement its policies more effectively — such as the promotion and development of the country’s halal industry — they (the government) have to collaborate or strike a partnership with the business community or the businessmen who will be responsible in making this a reality,” PCCI Makati President Toots Cortez told Arab News.

“We can be the catalyst. We will begin by creating awareness, especially among the MSMEs (micro, small and midsize enterprises) because, according to the records of DTI, 99.5 percent of business in the Philippines are composed of SMEs.”

The agreement on establishing the Makati Halal Hub will position the city as a “central point for innovation and business in the halal sector, spanning a variety of industries including food production, financial services, and more,” the DTI said in a statement, as it expects the initiative to “provide substantial opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs and international investors alike, fostering a robust economic ecosystem.”

According to the vision, the hub will act as a platform facilitating connections between manufacturers, traders, buyers, distributors and consumers in the halal sector.

“If we can group together and promote halal, I think that will be the best approach … You don’t need a big budget,” Cortez said.

“There are many Muslim embassies in Makati City, many restaurants and major establishments … Many tourists come to Makati, so if we can convince the establishments in Makati to be accredited as halal, that’s a good beginning from our side as a catalyst.”

He believes that the industry’s promotion in the city will make an impact as Makati is widely perceived as a trendsetter for other Philippine regions.

“The others, they follow the lead,” Cortez said. “They follow the lead on what’s happening in Makati City.”

Most Valuable Brands in the Philippines in 2024

From BDO to Puregold: These Are the Most Valuable Brands in the Philippines in 2024

Story by Currie Cator 
Esquire Philippines
27 April 2024

What exactly is brand value? Essentially, it's the monetary worth of your brand if you were to ever sell it, or allow any other business to use your name, logo, or identity. It defines the extent to which investors would pay you just to earn that right.


Ultimately, brand value starts with consumers, as London-based global brand valuation consultancy firm Brand Finance defines it. You could develop and grow your value, depending on how you address the needs and preferences of your customers with your services, technologies, and innovations, as well as your ability to adapt to fast-changing market trends.

In the Philippines, the brand deemed to be the most valuable is BDO Unibank, according to Brand Finance’s 2024 report. The Sy family-led bank toppled major telecommunications company PLDT, which held the top position for two straight years. According to the study, BDO’s value rose by 14 percent to $2.5 billion, enough to make it the country's most valuable brand.



From Brand Finance

In second place is homegrown fast-food chain Jollibee, whose brand value surged 51-percent over the past year, according to Brand Finance. Rising two spots from the previous year, the home of the beloved Chickenjoy's brand value is now worth $2.3 billion.

Meanwhile, the Ayala-led Globe Telecom kept its spot from last year and is still the third most valuable brand for the second year running, even with its brand value going down by four percent to $1.9 billion.

Rival telco PLDT, which was the previous the topnotcher, as well as the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), completed the top 5 most valuable Philippine brands.

As Brand Finance revealed in its report, PLDT’s value was down by at least one-fourth or 25 percent, which is equivalent to $1.9 billion dollars. The Zobel family’s BPI, on the other hand, saw a 22 percent increase in its brand value to $1.5 billion in 2024.

A mix of banks, power distributor, oil company, and supermarket chain made up the roster of the 10 most valuable brands locally. These are: Metrobank, at sixth place, with a brand value of $1.2 billion; followed by Meralco with $0.9 billion; Petron with $0.8 billion; Puregold with $0.7 billion; and UnionBank with $0.7 billion.

This is the second year in a row that Puregold, the lone retail brand in the top 10, was included in the list of most valuable Philippine brands. In a statement, the company led by Lucio and Susan Co said  it was a "testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as the untiring support of our loyal customers."

Strongest Philippine brands

Mang Inasal, which is under the Jollibee Foods Corporation, turned out to be the "strongest" among Philippine brands, based on Brand Finance’s study. It earned 86.3 out of 100 points in brand strength index (BSI). Given its vast store network in the country, it’s not much of a surprise that Mang Inasal garnered a perfect score in terms of brand familiarity. 

Following closely behind Mang Inasal are Bear Brand, Globe, BDO, and Jollibee, which round up the five strongest brands, the report said.

Unlike brand value that is heavily reliant on consumers, brand strength refers to the brand’s performance relative to its competitors. The BSI, which has a corresponding rating of up to AAA+, is used to determine how well the brands are faring in the industry, among other metrics.

Friday 26 April 2024

GMA Network is Asia's highest-ranking media in SEA (March)

GMA Network is highest ranking media company in Southeast Asia in March 2024

Story by GMA Integrated News
26 April 2024

GMA Network emerged as the highest ranking media company in Southeast Asia for March 2024!

According to “24 Oras” report Friday, this is based on the data gathered by the Tubular Leaderboard Worldwide Rankings.


For the same period, the Kapuso network reached 3,578,640,774 video views on its GMA Integrated News and GMA Entertainment Group Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube accounts.

As of March 2024, its social media accounts had reached more than 395 million subscribers and followers.

Meanwhile, its official website garnered 130 million page views from 25.8 million users, based on Google Analytics.—Carby Basina/LDF, GMA Integrated News

PH-Lithuania foster stronger ties

PH, Lithuania to boost economic ties

Story by JANINE ALEXIS MIGUEL
Manila Times
26 April 2024

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is seeking to foster stronger economic ties between the Philippines and Lithuania, particularly in the digital technology and energy sectors.

During the meeting with the Lithuanian delegation led by Foreign Affairs Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis on Thursday, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual also said that they aim to expand opportunities for bilateral cooperation and investment in aerospace and pharmaceutics.


"We are keen to expand our trade in sectors such as Information Technology and Business Process Management, where Lithuania's expertise and our capacity can effectively synergize," said Pascual.

He presented the Philippines' growing digital market, which offers a good opportunity for Lithuania's advancements in software development, fintech and cybersecurity.

"We are particularly interested in how Lithuanian technologies can help us improve e-governance and digital literacy, which are vital for our digital economy's expansion," said the trade chief.

Pascual also said that Lithuania's shift to renewable energy and sustainable practices serves as a benchmark, as the Philippines also aims to enhance its renewable energy capacities.

He also lauded Lithuania's expertise in energy solutions, particularly in wind and solar technologies.

In 2023, Lithuania ranked 42nd as the Philippines' trading partner. Pascual said that the Philippines remains a key exporter of high-quality goods to Lithuania, ranging from electronics to agricultural products.

Imports from Lithuania, meanwhile, were driven by sectors such as aerospace and pharmaceuticals.

Moreover, the DTI said that the Philippines serves as a gateway to the Asean markets, especially with its strategic location.

Pascual also affirmed their commitment to support foreign investments that drive technological advancements and sustainable practices.

"The growth in our digital infrastructure in recent years has been made possible by fostering an environment that values technological empowerment and open economic policies," he said.

"We look forward to exploring synergies to help the Philippines accelerate our energy transformation," said Pascual.

Additionally, the trade chief said that the dialogue between the Philippines and Lithuania underscores the bridging of two cultures and is an opportunity to build business relationships.

PH digital economy grows

Philippines digital economy expands by 7.7 percent in 2023

Story by Louella Desiderio
Philstar Global
26 April 2024

MANILA, Philippines — The value of the Philippine digital sector went up by 7.7 percent to P2.05 trillion in 2023 from P1.9 trillion in 2022, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

However, preliminary data released by the PSA showed the contribution of the sector to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) declined slightly to 8.4 percent in 2023 from 8.6 percent in 2022.

The digital economy is composed of digital transactions covering digital-enabling infrastructure, e-commerce, digital media or content and government digital services.

According to the PSA, the government digital services component is the newest addition to those being tracked.

Digital-enabling infrastructure accounted for the bulk of the digital economy amounting to P1.7 trillion in 2023, up by 6.3 percent from P1.6 trillion in 2022.

Under the digital-enabling infrastructure component, the top three contributors were telecommunication services with 32.9 percent, followed by professional and business services with 30.1 percent, as well as computer, electronic and optical products with 17.1 percent.

E-commerce accounted for 14 percent of the digital economy amounting to P286.67 billion in 2023, up by 18.5 percent from P241.86 billion in 2022.

Digital media or content accounted for a 2.9 percent share valued at P60.21 billion, up by 4.8 percent from P57.44 billion in 2022.

Government digital services had a 0.2 percent share amounting to P4.16 billion, down by 5.6 percent from P4.41 billion in 2022.

There were 9.68 million individuals employed in the digital economy in the country in 2023.

E-commerce had the highest share in employment in the digital economy with 87.3 percent, followed by digital-enabling infrastructure with 11.5 percent, digital media or content with 1.1 percent and government digital services with 0.1 percent.

Thursday 25 April 2024

Taisei invests in PH clean energy sector

Japanese builder forays into PH clean energy

Inquirer.net
25 April 2024

Taisei Corp., a Japan-based general contractor, is investing in one of the subsidiaries of the Yuchengco Group’s PetroEnergy Resources Corp. (PERC).

Taisei signed investment framework and shareholders agreements with PERC unit PetroGreen Energy Corp. (PGEC) to corner a 25-percent equity stake in Rizal Green Energy Corp. for an undisclosed amount, PERC said in a disclosure on Wednesday.

PERC said this is Taisei’s first equity investment in renewable energy outside Japan although it has been operating as a general contractor in the Philippines since 1982, mostly in official development assistance-funded infrastructures.

Taisei’s investment covers the funding, construction and operation of an initial portfolio of four solar power facilities: the 41-megawatt Limbauan project in Isabela province, the 25-MW Bugallon project in Pangasinan, the 19.6-MW San Jose project in Nueva Ecija and the 27-MW Dagohoy solar project in Bohol.

“We are very pleased to be able to contribute to renewable energy in the Philippines, which is experiencing remarkable development, and more importantly, to participate in this project as a business partner with PGEC,” Taisei executive vice president Jiro Taniyama said.

“Following on the 2022 partnership we forged with Kyuden International Corporation (KIC), Taisei’s entry not only validates PGEC’s performance and integrity as a [renewable energy] developer and partner but also testifies to the vastly improved energy investment climate in the country under the present administration,” PGEC chair Milagros Reyes said.

“Combining Taisei’s engineering and construction expertise with Kyuden’s and PGEC’s experience in the Philippine energy market and regulatory environment, we hope to explore other … opportunities such as hydropower, floating solar, energy storage and efficiency and others to boost the Philippines’ transition to a net-zero future,” PGEC board director and KIC Asia division managing director Keiichi Niinuma said.

Taisei is the latest Japanese firm to invest in PGEC. In 2022, KIC acquired a 25-percent stake in PGEC resulting in the dilution of shares of PERC and EEI Power Corp., both owned by the Yuchengco family, in the company.

Founded in 1873, Taisei is engaged in building ports and harbors, bridges and tunnels, power stations, industrial complexes and commercial buildings in more than 65 countries.

The Japanese general contractor recorded total net sales of $12.3 billion or around P706.1 billion. —JORDEENE B. LAGARE

Philippines named Destination of the Year at Asia Dive Expo

Philippines hailed as Sustainable Dive Destination of the Year at Asia Dive Expo

Jan Milo Severo 
Philstar.com
April 25, 2024 

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines was named as Sustainable Dive Destination of the Year at Asia Dive Expo in Singapore, in recognition of its unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices in dive tourism.


“This recognition, alongside our long list of accolades celebrating the beauty of our nation, underscores our steadfast commitment to sustainable tourism practices,” said Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. 

“Participation in trade fairs like ADEX provides us a platform to promote the Philippines’ diverse tourism products and experiences. Moving forward, we will continue to work hand in hand with local communities and dive operators to ensure sustainable practices are followed so that our country’s treasures will still be enjoyed by future generations in the years to come,” she added. 

The country’s participation in the expo, known as Asia’s largest and longest-running dive expo, was a resounding success after a three-day business-to-consumer session, generating P197,219,062.09 in combined negotiated sales leads and actual bookings. This marked more than 300% increase from last year’s negotiated sales leads. 

As the event’s official country partner for the third consecutive year, the Philippine pavilion utilized a 90-square-meter booth space to feature some of the country’s finest dive sites such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Palawan, the famed sardine run of Moalboal in Cebu, and the marine and natural park of Apo Reef in Mindoro.

The Philippine delegation, led by the TPB, is composed of 16 exhibitors from the dive industry, accommodation, and tour operators, including Lalaguna Villas Luxury Dive Resort and Spa, Thresher Shark Divers, Infiniti Liveaboard Inc., El Galleon Resort/Asia Divers, Scandi Divers, M.Y. Resolute, Kasai Village Dive Resort, Logon Fish Buddies Diveshop, Earth Explorers Travel and Tours, Aiyanar Beach and Dive Resort, Fun & Sun Dive & Travel, Boracay Adventures Travel N Tours/Fisheye Divers, Sea Explorers Philippines, Atmosphere Resorts & Spa, Bohol Beach Club, and Atlantis Dive Resorts and Liveaboards, who offered dive and liveaboard packages in the top and emerging dive destinations in the Philippines. 

In a series of talks and panel discussions, Ram Yoro, a renowned underwater photographer, cave diving expert, Filipino scuba instructor, and author of "Guide to Anilao," shared insights on the Best of Philippine diving to further establish and sustain the country’s reputation as one of the world’s best diving destinations. Other Filipinos also represented the country on several panel stages including renowned underwater photographers, Bo Mancao and Alex Santos, and distinguished sustainability advocates, Cat Trivino and Antoinette Taus.

The TPB has been participating in ADEX for more than ten years which has been significant in ensuring that Singapore remains one of the country’s top source markets.

Filipino among outstanding teachers in New York

Filipino among 7 Sloan outstanding teachers in NY

By Antonio G. Papa Ph.D.
Manila Times
25 April 2024

A FILIPINO teacher, Dr. Eleuterio Timbol, was hailed as one of the seven awardees of the 2024 Sloan Awards for Outstanding Teaching in Science and Mathematics by the Fund for the City of New York.

Joining Timbol as outstanding educator-awardees were Jessica Boyle, Carine Hall-Brown, Jhosua Modeste, Padma Paramananda, Molly Shabica and Laginne Walker.

The teachers, the Fund said, have demonstrated remarkable innovation in teaching, offering personalized support and designing curricula that open new pathways for students in biology, mathematics, physics, robotics, and computer science.

Dr. Eleuterio Timbol (center), an alumnus of Cavite State University and one of seven awardees of the 2024 Sloan Awards for Outstanding Teaching in the fields of Science and Mathematics, holds the trophy and plaque of recognition from the officials of the Fund for the City of New York. PHOTO FROM FUND FOR THE CITY OF NEW YORK

The dedication of these teachers has not only transformed their classrooms but also significantly contributed to the broader educational community, it said.

Timbol's achievement made the pages of The Philippine Herald online publication titled "Filipino Teacher Recognized for Exceptional Teaching in Mathematics and Science" on April 15:

"A Filipino teacher in New York City, USA, has received praise and recognition for his unwavering dedication to teaching science and mathematics to public high school students. Eleuterio Timbol received the 2024 SLOAN Award for Outstanding Teaching in the Science and Mathematics fields.

"Following the information provided by the Fund City of New York website, educational professionals who go to great lengths to help their students shine qualify for this award, thereby placing Timbol as one of the recipients of this prestigious recognition. 'These are educators who achieve superb results while inspiring youth to excel in science and mathematics and pursue careers in related fields,' Fund City of New York said.

"Timbol actively participates in professional organizations such as the Association of Filipino-American Teachers of America and the Association of Filipino Teachers in Eastern America.

"In 2022, Timbol earned recognition as one of the 54 public school teachers in New York State who received the Governor's Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award.

"He grew up as one of nine siblings of a housewife and a mechanic in the Philippines. Currently, he works as a teacher at the High School for Law Enforcement and Public Safety, where he teaches Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 and Trigonometry.

"In response to this outstanding achievement, Timbol also received a US$5,000 cash prize, or around P281,000, for achieving this award."

Timbol graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy in Education from Cavite State University.

For 15 years, these awards have honored New York City public high school educators who inspire and guide their students toward futures in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Wednesday 24 April 2024

Challenging times in the Philippines

Opinion

A Rising Philippines Faces a Crucial Year Ahead

The island nation is arguably Southeast Asia’s most strategically important country. Can it become its most influential?

BY: Haroro Ingram; Andrew Mines
United States Institute of Peace
24 April 2024

By virtue of its geography alone, the Philippines is arguably Southeast Asia’s most strategically important country. Yet its actual influence has tended to lag its potential due to decades of socioeconomic struggle and internal instability, especially in its restive southern island of Mindanao. In recent years, however, the Philippines has rapidly emerged as one of the most consequential countries in the Indo-Pacific, driven in large part by President Ferdinand Marcos’ transformative policies on national security, defense and foreign relations.


A recent trilateral meeting with the United States and Japan in Washington, D.C. is testimony to the nation’s growing status on the world stage. Yet, its continued trajectory is far from guaranteed. Over the next 13 months, the Philippines must grapple with an internal peace process that will define its ability to reorient its posture toward addressing China’s aggression. Manila will also need to harness economic and demographic factors that will be crucial for not just the Philippines’ growth but ensuring it has the capability and capacity necessary for its military modernization goals. How it manages these simultaneous efforts will fundamentally shape the country’s trajectory and character for the next decade.

Inside the Cauldron

Many of the Indo-Pacific’s most contested geopolitical fault-lines converge in the Philippines’ immediate neighborhood. This archipelagic nation sits at the center of a series of island chains stretching from Australia into the heart of Asia. Taiwan is less than 90 miles from the Philippines’ northernmost island while its southernmost islands are part of a tri-border area with Indonesia and Malaysia. To its east lies the Pacific Ocean and, eventually, the United States. To its west is mainland Asia and, wedged in between, are the world’s most contested waters: the South China Sea, or West Philippine Sea. It is here that China has engaged in a long campaign of incursions into waters that have been determined to be part of the Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone under international law.

Since last month, China has significantly escalated this campaign of maritime aggression in Philippine waters. Dangerous maneuvering and water cannon assaults, partnered as always with Beijing’s trademark “gaslighting” rhetoric, has pushed tensions to a precarious new high. China’s recent attacks on the Philippines in March injured seven Filipino servicemembers. Both the United States and the Philippines have acknowledged that if a Philippines servicemember is killed it would be sufficient to initiate Article 5 of the Mutual Defense Treaty, which could lead to direct kinetic conflict between China and the United States in the West Philippine Sea.

To prevent further escalation in its waters, Marcos signed Executive Order 57 restructuring the nation’s maritime domain security and awareness as the first in a series of steps to raise countermeasures. With external threats to its national sovereignty mounting in an Indo-Pacific region characterized by rising volatility, it is little wonder that the Philippines intends to embark on an ambitious re-posturing and modernization of its armed forces.

Toppling the Dominoes

For most of its history, the Armed Forces of the Philippines have been almost solely focused on internal threats, specifically communist guerrillas and Moro rebellions in the south. While the communist threat has been significantly weakened, the extraordinary successes of the peace efforts between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Philippines government, leading to the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, has brought the most promising hope for peace and stability in the southern Philippines for generations. With the region’s first elections scheduled for May 2025, which will bring an end to an appointed transitional authority, there are now 13 months left for the remaining milestones of the peace agreement to be met and the threats posed by various peace spoilers to be quelled.

A crucial year lies ahead. Without a sufficiently stable Bangsamoro region, the Philippines will simply not be able to fully commit the time, resources and focus necessary to transform its military for territorial defense. Worse than that, such a future contingency would mean that the Philippines would face simultaneous threats to both its internal stability and external sovereignty. Peace in Bangsamoro is not just important for enabling a desperately needed refocusing of its military. A more stable and coherent Philippines would allow the nation to take full advantage of the demographic and economic opportunities before it.

Today, those opportunities are ample. Twenty-eight percent of the Philippines population is between the ages of 10-24, giving the country a labor market edge. After rebounding from global pandemic shock in 2020, the Philippines GDP grew 7.6% in 2022, placing it among the world’s five fastest-growing large emerging markets that year. Domestic consumption, as well as remittances from overseas, has traditionally driven growth but recent years have seen reforms and internal stability that are positioning the Philippines for more investment-led growth. Marcos views economic and national security as hand-in-hand and has shepherded in a new era of economic and security partnerships with the world’s largest democratic powers.

If internal and regional security challenges are effectively managed, the Philippines shows the potential to leverage continued economic growth and expanded global partnerships to wield a regional influence that matches its geo-strategic position in the next decade or so.

The X Factor in the Trilateral

Nowhere is the Philippines’ rise clearer than in the recent U.S.-Japan-Philippines trilateral summit. Among the growing latticework of minilateral alliances between the Indo-Pacific's democracies, this triad draws unique strength from historically robust bilateral relationships on all three sides. A flurry of state visits, ministerial meetings and joint exercises throughout 2023 and early 2024 only built anticipation leading up to the summit. By the summit’s end, any doubts about the trilateral’s seriousness — and the importance of the Philippines to it — were comprehensively dismantled.

On maritime security, the three nations agreed to expand on the first-ever joint exercise between their coast guards in 2023 with additional capacity building, maritime domain awareness support and joint patrols, including with other regional partners like Australia over the weekend prior to the trilateral summit.

Since then, the annual Balikatan ("shoulder-to-shoulder") military exercises — the largest annual bilateral exercise between the Philippines and the U.S. — commenced on Monday. This year’s exercise features observers from 14 other nations, involvement of the French Navy and new military equipment recently delivered to the Philippines by international partners. More support could be on the way, with President Biden requesting an additional $128 million in congressional funding for implementation of infrastructure at Philippines bases that the U.S. accesses under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.  

Beyond maritime security, the U.S.-Philippines-Japan trilateral formally announced a joint cyber defense network, which follows recent cyberattacks by the Chinese military-linked "Volt Typhoon” group targeting critical infrastructure. Japan and the U.S. also agreed to expand investments in the Philippine semiconductor workforce and help secure the three nations’ semiconductor supply chains. Additional investments and commitments between the three countries covered the global online creative industry, renewable energy, critical minerals, an international submarine cable system connecting the U.S. and the Philippines, and several other areas. Another highlight was the announcement of the Luzon Economic Corridor, a multi-city infrastructure and investment project to connect and drive economic growth in four major Philippine economic hubs including Subic Bay, Clark, Manila and Batangas.

The summit marks a major milestone in the trilateral relationship. Beyond formally announcing a suite of trilateral economic and security cooperation, it showcased a shared vision of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. It also showcased exactly how the three countries could amplify one another’s strengths.

The U.S. brings immense military power, economic support and technical expertise to bear. Japan for decades has led the world in infrastructure investment in Southeast Asia, provided a quiet buffer against its authoritarian neighbors, steadfastly supported peace and security in Mindanao and is currently undergoing its own revolution in defense posture. The Philippines has a unique combination of geopolitical positioning, massive economic growth potential and a wealth of expertise and experience forged through years of face-offs with China. In the short-term, it could be the latter that proves to be one of the Philippines’ most valuable contributions to its allies and partners.  

The Crossroads

What happens over the next 13 months will fuel a compounding dynamic that will either help to advance the Philippines’ national progress and international influence or hamstring it. The dominos will fall one way or the other beginning with whether a peaceful transition in the Bangsamoro can be fully realized. Any nation that cares about Beijing’s destabilizing impact in the Indo-Pacific must also care about the fortunes of the Bangsamoro peace process. Of course, peace in the south is only the first of several critical issues that Manila must grapple with. The stakes are high, but both the odds and momentum favor the Philippines.

Manila improves ranking in Global Green Finance Index

Manila jumps five spots in Global Green Finance Index

BusinessWorld
24 April 2024

MANILA moved up five spots in the latest ranking of financial centers based on their green finance performance, according to London-based think tank Z/Yen Group.

In the 13th edition of the Global Green Finance Index (GGFI), Manila ranked 69th out of 96 financial centers. This was better than its 74th ranking in the previous edition.

The Philippine capital rose five spots in the Global Green Finance Index. An aerial view shows the Ortigas business district in Pasig City, June 10, 2022. -- Reuters

Manila’s rating also increased to 573 from 536 previously.


The index utilizes quantitative measures and survey of finance professionals’ assessments on the quality and depth of green finance products in financial centers.

“There appears to be strong confidence in the development of green finance in financial centers, with every center’s rating in the index moving up in this edition, and the average rating up 4.21% compared with GGFI 12,” according to the report.

In the Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines lagged behind its neighbors and ranked 18th overall. Singapore was the top performer in the region, followed by Seoul, Sydney, Shenzhen and Shanghai.

“Almost all centers in the region fell in the rankings, with only Singapore, Guangzhou, Manila, and Bangkok improving,” the report said.

Among select East and Southeast Asian cities, the Philippines ranked 14 out of 15 financial centers.

Overall, London ranked first in the index. This was followed by Geneva, Zurich, New York, Singapore, Luxembourg, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Stockholm and Montreal.

“The centers which perform well in the GGFI continue to be places that are committed to environmental development across the economy as well as directly in finance, and in building their skills for green finance for the future,” the report said.

Respondents cited energy efficient investment, disinvestment from fossil fuels and green insurance as areas of green finance with the “most impact.”

“Risk management frameworks, international initiatives, and renewables are listed by respondents as the major drivers of green finance,” it added.

Respondents identified factors that most affect the uptake of green finance, such as regulatory environment, availability of skills and taxation, among others.

Among the interesting initiatives in green finance cited by respondents include biogas, sustainability-linked bonds, carbon credit exchange platforms, green and sustainable finance taxonomies, green insurance, blended finance and utilization linked finance.

The Philippine government has been looking for ways to promote sustainable and green finance.

In February, the Monetary Board approved the sustainable finance taxonomy guidelines which aim to “advance sustainable finance in the country.” It serves as a tool to classify whether an economic activity is environmentally and socially sustainable.

The Philippine central bank also approved in December the gradual reduction in the reserve requirement rate for green, social, sustainability and other sustainable bonds to encourage banks to extend more loans for green pro-jects. — Luisa Maria Jacinta C. Jocson

Pinoy inventions win at Geneva expo

9 Pinoy inventions bag medals at Geneva expo

Ranier Allan Ronda 
The Philippine Star 
April 24, 2024 

MANILA, Philippines — Nine Filipino inventions and innovations fielded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva (IEIG) all bagged medals for the Philippines this year.


Silver medals were conferred on DOST-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) technologies, namely the hemostat for emergency treatment, a revolutionary lifesaving innovation that enhances blood-clotting, and the carboxymethyl hyaluronic acid (CMHA) hydrogels, which are versatile hydrogels with wide-ranging applications in various industries, including health care and agriculture.

The mobile water disinfection system of the DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) also received a silver award as a transformative solution that ensures access to clean and safe drinking water, particularly in remote or disaster-affected areas.

The multi-fuel dryer invented by Prof. Zaldy Fernandez of Mariano Marcos State University also clinched a silver award as it featured dual functionality, acting both as a dryer and an oven, revolutionizing food and textile processing.

Meanwhile, five inventions received bronze awards: eco-bamboo textiles, lyocell and natural fiber blended yarns of the DOST-Philippine Textile Research Institute, flavored salt and seasoning of the DOST-ITDI, super water absorbent technology of the DOST-PNRI and pili seal (pili tree resin sealant and flame retardant) of Mark Kennedy Bantugon.

The super water absorbent technology, pili seal and lyocell yarns also received special awards from the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship of King Khalid University, an organization that empowers individuals to transform innovative ideas into successful ventures.

DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. hailed the impressive performance of Filipino inventions and innovations at the IEIG 2024, as they showcased the continuing innovation and invention of Filipinos and the world-class qualities of these innovations.

“The performance of the nine Philippine entries to the IEIG in Geneva, Switzerland … show that through research and development and innovation, we can produce world-class products,” Solidum said.

“I congratulate the Philippine entries for their excellent and globally competitive works and innovations,” he added.

PHL - World Bank crisis deal

PHL Leads with World Bank crisis response deal

Daily Guardian
24 April 2024

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto has advanced the Philippines’ position in crisis and disaster management globally by entering into a pioneering agreement with the World Bank Group (WBG).

The country emerges as the first to sign the Rapid Response Option (RRO), a component of the WBG’s Expanded Crisis Preparedness and Response Toolkit, designed to offer countries nimble financial deployment during emergencies.

The RRO will enable the Philippines to access up to 10% of undisbursed and uncommitted balances from their portfolio with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) or International Development Association (IDA) swiftly, providing immediate liquidity to facilitate crucial services such as healthcare, shelter, and food in times of crisis.

WBG Managing Director Anna Bjerde (left) with Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto.

This groundbreaking agreement was sealed by Secretary Recto and WBG Managing Director Anna Bjerde on April 20, 2024, alongside the WBG and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C., according to a press statement from the DOF.

Present to witness the signing were Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, Monetary Board Member Rosalia V. De Leon of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Deputy Governor Francisco G. Dakila, Jr., National Treasurer Sharon P. Almanza, and Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo.

Bjerde praised the Philippines’ swift adoption of the RRO, remarking, “I honestly cannot think of a better client and country to sign the first RRO. It fits nicely into the program that we are supporting in the Philippines under your leadership. It is wonderful to see that just in February, we went to the Board with this crisis response toolkit to just in a few months be able to operationalize it with such an important partner and client.”

Responding to this development, Secretary Recto underscored its significance for the nation’s economic security, “We greatly welcome the introduction of the Rapid Response Option, which significantly enhances our capacity to ensure economic security for the Filipino people. Through this, we can safeguard our hard-earned development progress, strengthen our resilience against shocks, and keep our development targets on track.”

The RRO stands among the latest innovations in the WBG’s toolkit, which also includes upgraded access to pre-arranged financing for emergency response and broadened catastrophe insurance, reinforcing the country’s arsenal against unforeseen disasters and crises.

Pinay Tiktok Star wins Webby Awards

Abi Marquez Bags Webby Awards "People's Voice" for Food and Drink

Story by Patricia Baes and Team
SPOT.ph 
24 April 2024

If you find yourself drawn to the cooking videos of TikTok star Abi Marquez every time you open the app, you're far from alone. The people have spoken, and the young Filipina food vlogger gains international acclaim as she was recognized in the 28th Webby Awards.

Abi Marquez in The Webby Awards 2024

Marquez took home the People's Voice award in the Social – Food & Drink category of the 28th annual Webby Awards, the results of which were announced on their website on Tuesday, April 23. This winning will be celebrated at the upcoming award show taking place in New York on May 13.


Marquez, of course, is known for her cooking shortform videos, particularly on TikTok and Instagram. She's playfully dubbed "Lumpia Queen" for her series stuffing unlikely ingredients and ingredient combos (think peach-mango, tuna pie, sisig, and more!) into lumpia wrappers, a la the Filipino spring roll.

Called the "Internet's highest honor" by no less than the New York Times, The Webby Awards is an annual award established in 1996, focusing on the wide world of the Internet. Its Food & Drink Social category covers food- and drink-focused social media accounts and content—we're talking chef and restaurant profiles, culinary history, recipes, cooking, reviews, and so on. "These include accounts on behalf of restaurants, critics, influencers, brands, and manufacturers," The Webby Awards writes on their website.

Tuesday 23 April 2024

Koreans are the top tourists in PH

South Korea takes top spot in Philippine tourist arrivals! See who else made the list

Visitor arrivals jump 21.27% in Q1 2024, as tourism agency ramps up campaign

Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor and 
Infographics by Vijith Pulikkal, Assistant Product Manager
Gulf News
23 April 2024

Manila: Tourism has made a huge comeback in the Philippines with 1.7 million arrivals in the first three months of 2024, official data revealed.

The 21.3-per cent rise in arrival numbers in the first quarter this year – from 1.29 million in the same period in 2023 – could help the country hit targets enough to match pre-pandemic levels before 2024 is out.

The Department of Tourism is ramping up its tourism campaign with the global travel trade, covering more cities around the world, including the Middle East, alongside a whole-of-nation drive to boost Halal tourism.

Top 5, by country of residence

In terms of country of origin, South Korean tourists topped the list of arrivals with 458,619, or 27.59 per cent of the total, up from 26.02 per cent in the same period last year.

The luxury cruise ship 'Norwegian Jewel' calls the Port of Currimao (top photo), in northern Philippines, after spending a day in the capital Manila.

The luxury cruise ship 'Norwegian Jewel' calls the Port of Currimao (top photo), in northern Philippines, after spending a day in the capital Manila.

The US came second with 264,690 tourist arrivals, equivalent to a 15.92 per cent share of total arrivals – and 4.36 per cent higher than the first quarter of 2023.

On the third spot is China, with 109,568, accounting for 6.59 per cent of tourist arrivals and 149.9 per cent jump from 43,833 in the first quarter of 2023.

Japan took the fourth spot with 109,347 arrivals from January to March 2024, or 6.34 per cent of total arrivals during the period, a 63.21 per cent increase from the first quarter of 2023 with 64,547.


Australia took the fifth spot with 67,634 arrivals, or 4.07 per cent of the total. This, however, represented a 3.75 per cent drop from 70,266 in the first quarter of 2023.

Affordable, diverse
The Philippines, known for its affordability and diverse offerings, anticipates a surge in regional arrivals due to its proximity and robust transport connections.

A cruise ship near the central resort island of Boracay, Philippines. Image Credit: Carlos Celdran | FB




Fitch Solutions unit BMI forecasts a return to pre-pandemic foreign visitor levels, estimating arrivals to reach 8.21 million by the end of 2024. The Department of Tourism is aiming for a more modest target of 7.7 million tourist arrivals this year.

In 2023, the Philippines welcomed over 5.45 million foreign visitors, surpassing BMI's projection of 4.9 million for 2023 and DOT's own target.

The tourism sector's complete recovery is expected to get an added boost from a rise in arrivals from key markets in Asia, Europe, and the US and Canada. 

SB19 to the world

Filipino boy band SB19 on taking the sounds of P-pop to the world

Ahead of their Dubai concert, group says the genre is defined by emotional attachment between artists and fans

The National (UAE)

Saeed Saeed
23 April 2024

What is Pinoy pop? Is it simply a Filipino version of the turbocharged electro sounds of Korean-pop dominating arenas from Abu Dhabi and Riyadh to Australia? Or is there something deeper to the burgeoning genre, staking its claim as the next big sound coming from Asia?

Ask scene leaders SB19, and the reply is that the boy band define their craft by the emotional response to the songs rather than the way it sounds.


“I don't think there is any real difference between Pinoy Pop, K-pop and pop music in general,” Pablo (full name Pablo Nase) tells The National, ahead of the group's show at The Agenda on Wednesday. “But I think that it has a personal and emotional quality to it because we travel the world and play to many Filipinos.

“They know, even more than us, what it means to be away from home and missing your family. So when we perform these universal songs, some of them happy and others sad, they connect because they relate to us.”

Josh, full name Josh Cullen, remembers a particular exchange with a fan during the band's last visit to Dubai in 2022.

“Her name was Chantel and she told us why, at that time, she was in Dubai for seven months and hearing our music made her feel less lonely and more safe,” he says. “This kind of conversation leaves a big mark in my heart because you are inspiring fans and they inspire us with their words as well. So it is a win-win situation.”


It also means that every SB19 show has the cathartic quality of a family reunion. The Dubai concert is the beginning of the final leg of their Pagtatag! World Tour, which has visited the North America and Canada and is scheduled to conclude in the Philippines in May.

During that time some members worked on solo projects, with Justin (Justin De Dios) releasing debut solo single Surreal in February. Stell, real name Stellvester Ajero, was the winning coach on last year’s season of the Filipino version of television talent quest The Voice Generation.

He confirms he will be back to defend his title on the programme later this year. “The most important advice I gave my team on the show is to not be afraid of expressing yourself,” he says. “You need to know who you are and be confident in showing your true colours.”

It's a lesson the band has learnt after six years in the spotlight. Formed in 2018 after the members individually participated in a talent contest held by ShowBT Philippines, a subsidiary of the South Korean K-pop company ShowBT, the group grew from performing corporate gigs to become the first Filipino act nominated in the Billboard Music Awards for Top Social Artist. They were also the first South-East Asian act to enter the top 10 of Billboard’s Social 50 charts.

SB19 also halted BTS’s record-breaking number one reign on Billboard's Trending Songs chart after their 2022 single Bazinga replaced Butter in the top slot. The group capitalised on the global spotlight afforded to Asian pop artists on the back of K-pop’s success, but Stell recalls having to adapt quickly to the rigours of touring.

Where before Pinoy pop artists would organically build their fan base at home before performing abroad, he says SB19 had a global fan base almost from the beginning. “I am very grateful and love visiting new countries, but touring is also very tiring for me and it can be really suffocating,” Stell says.

It is during these challenging times that the group rely on each other, Pablo notes. “It helps that we confide in each other. We have had some times where we have had to control our emotions and learn how to react to certain situations,” he says. “We try not to waste our energy on things that ultimately don’t matter.”

Sometimes, a little bit of healthy distance from each other also helps keep the SB19 ship afloat. “Taking time out helps when you have arguments,” Justin says. “While we always talk to each other, I believe time also heals.

“Whatever emotions we feel is really because we love what we do and we basically grew up together. And sometimes what works for a specific member in the group doesn't work for another, so you just have to be the bigger person and let it go.”

With the group set to release new single Moonlight in May, their first song since 2023 hit Gento, there is much more to come from SB19.

“It is a really exciting time and this new song will be this summer's jam,” Pablo says. “After the tour we will rest and then plan for the next stage. We have our whole year planned already and we will be preparing for something big for our fans.”

BBM in the middle of East Asia powershift

Opinion

Marcos drives East Asia’s power balance shift

Story by Segundo Eclar Romero
Inquirer.net
23 April 2024

The recently concluded summit between US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and Philippine President Marcos is a milestone in recasting the balance of power in maritime (North and Southeast) East Asia.

Reuters| www.sg.style.yahoo.com

This milestone further clarifies the political dynamics in the South China Sea, Taiwan, and the Senkaku Islands. A transformative shift has occurred over the past three years, reshaping the balance of power in maritime East Asia. This transformation stems from a confluence of bilateral, trilateral, and multilateral security arrangements, underscored by joint exercises and patrols across critical strategic hotspots like the South China Sea, Taiwan, and the Japanese Senkaku islands. These initiatives have galvanized credible military forces to counter Chinese aggression, backed by unprecedented commitments from the United States to uphold its mutual defense treaties with key allies like the Philippines and Japan.

However, it is the decisive action of Mr. Marcos that has emerged as a pivotal force driving this seismic shift. Far from being a passive participant, Mr. Marcos has boldly embraced a strategic realignment by welcoming American visiting forces and facilitating the establishment of nine military facilities across the Philippine archipelago, particularly in the northern regions bordering Taiwan and China. From the point of view of the Philippines, it is a shift in the policy of appeasement toward China under President Rodrigo Duterte to a policy of containment under Mr. Marcos. This proactive stance has served as a catalyst, igniting momentum toward a recalibration of power dynamics in the region.

There is no tentativeness in Mr. Marcos’ actions. Following a January 2022 deal, the Philippines last week received three sets of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles—the first for the Philippines, and the first for India. The BrahMos fires two missiles traveling at 2.8 Mach within 10 seconds from various platforms—land, ships, aircraft, and submarines. Also in exasperating territorial conflict with China, India weighs in on the Philippine side.

By aligning the Philippines more closely with the United States and its allies, Marcos has injected a newfound assertiveness into regional security efforts, challenging China’s hegemonic ambitions. This shift has not gone unnoticed by Beijing, which has responded with heightened rhetoric and attempts to portray itself as a victim rather than an aggressor in regional tensions.

Mr. Marcos’ stance resonates not only with policymakers but also with public intellectuals and the Filipino populace. The priority he gives to national security interests aligns with the deep-seated public empathy for Filipino fishermen affected by Chinese encroachments in the West Philippine Sea.

However, China’s strategy extends beyond the waters of the West Philippine Sea, infiltrating the very fabric of Filipino society. Following China’s reported interventions in other countries (e.g., Australia, the United States, Taiwan, European Union), evidence suggests a concerted effort to subvert democratic processes, with attempts to influence the outcome of the upcoming presidential elections in 2028. The candidacy of Sara Duterte, who arguably shares her father’s pro-China stance, serves as a possible focal point for these efforts. The enrollment of almost 500 Chinese students in a college in Tuguegarao raises security eyebrows, on top of the infiltration of Chinese nationals as auxiliaries into the Philippine Coast Guard.

China’s infiltration goes beyond mere political maneuvering, permeating through porous archipelagic borders and societal structures. Through various channels—students, tourists, scholarly exchanges, and infrastructure projects—China seeks to embed itself within Philippine society, molding public opinion and influencing electoral outcomes to its advantage.

In this volatile landscape, the burden falls on Filipino institutions and intellectuals to provide clarity and guidance. The foreign affairs and military bureaucracies are thrust into the spotlight, tasked with shaping Philippine policy toward China across multiple administrations. Likewise, public intellectuals must engage in informed discourse, offering evidence-based analysis to empower the populace and inform the government’s decision-making.

Amidst the geopolitical maneuvering, conflating the conflict between nations with the relationships between the Filipino and Chinese peoples must be avoided. The internal dynamics of China under the CCP dictatorship, marked by economic challenges and societal discontent is not unfamiliar to Filipinos who lived through Marcos Sr.’s authoritarian rule.

As the 2025 and 2028 elections loom closer, the Philippines stands at a critical juncture, where the trajectory of its relationship with China will be shaped for generations to come. It is incumbent upon Filipino institutions, civil society, and individuals to navigate these treacherous waters with foresight and fortitude, ensuring that national interests are safeguarded while fostering people-to-people understanding and cooperation.

doyromero@gmail.com

Monday 22 April 2024

Korean travelling youth headed to the Philippines

Korean youth driving demand for Philippines flights

Story by Elijah Felice Rosales
Philstar Global
22 April 2024

MANILA, Philippines — South Korea’s flag carrier expects to fly about 1.7 million passengers to and from the Philippines this year, optimistic that tourism demand will be sustained by the traveling youth.


Korean Air corporate communications manager Kenneth Lee told The STAR that the airline flew more than 1.7 million travelers between the Philippines and South Korea in 2023.

Lee said the airline projects to serve around the same number of passengers this year, banking on the recovering demand for air travel from both Filipinos and South Koreans.

Korean Air currently sells at least 2,800 seats every day for flights between the Philippines and South Korea. At this rate, the airline is exceeding its daily sales prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Lee, the bulk of the demand for trips to the Philippines to the South Korean youth who head to islands for water activities. This demographic likes to go off the beaten tracks, exploring destinations that require them to travel outside the radar of urban centers.

Lee added that these travelers typically stay in the Philippines for an average of three months to the benefit of communities where they choose to live.

Lee said the pandemic failed to diminish the Filipinos’ love for Seoul as the Korean Embassy is processing some 1,300 applications for visas per day.

However, Filipinos explore Seoul mostly on packaged tours, as they stay in the city for a shorter period compared to their South Korean counterparts in the Philippines.

Korean Air operates in the Philippine market through hubs in Manila and Cebu. The airline offers 21 flights a week, three trips per day, between Manila and Incheon using an Airbus A330 and Boeing 777.

South Korea’s flag carrier also runs once a day flights between Cebu and Incheon utilizing a 777-200.

Meanwhile, Korean Air’s budget unit Asiana Airlines connects Clark and Incheon four times a week, on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Based on latest data, Korean Air corners at least 25 percent of the market for flights between the Philippines and South Korea, sharing the remainder of the demand with Philippine carriers.

Korean Air serves the Southeast Asian region through its joint venture with Delta Air, one of the leading operators in the US, splitting the costs and revenue from the operations.

SEA as top growth market

Southeast Asia seen as a top growth market

Story by Alden M. Monzon
Inquirer.net
22 April 2024

MANILA, Philippines — Asia-Pacific business leaders expect that most growth in the region this year will be in Southeast Asia, which includes the Philippines, highlighting the potential for global growth for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in this part of the globe.



This is according to a survey by the American multinational FedEx Corp., done in partnership with Forbes Insights, which involved a poll of 250 business leaders in the region, including founders and C-suite executives.

Respondents were asked to select the regions where they see the most growth potential in the next 12 months.

About two-thirds or 68 percent of respondents picked Southeast Asia, followed by Europe, which was chosen by 45 percent.

Meanwhile, North and South America was selected by 45 percent, while the grouping of India, the Middle East, Eurasia, and Africa was cited by 33 percent.

Maribeth Espinosa, managing director of FedEx Express Philippines, said in a statement the survey presents valuable insights and opportunities for businesses in the Philippines to better serve their customers and tap into new markets.

In the same survey, issues on government customs requirements, tariffs, and customs clearance were cited as the biggest barrier to cross-border business as cited by half of the respondents.

Marketing, as well as gaining visibility into global markets and finding customers, on the other hand, was cited by 45 percent.

The third challenge, as cited by 42 percent, is finding partners and suppliers in global markets. INQ

Billions worth of projects approved

Over P600 billion projects approved in 4 months – BOI

Story by Louella Desiderio
Phulstar Global
22 April 2024

MANILA, Philippines — Investments approved by the Board of Investments (BOI) have reached more than P600 billion in the first four months of the year.

In a press briefing, BOI director Sandra Marie Recolizado said P607.22 billion worth of investments have been approved by the investment promotion agency for the January to April 17 period this year.


Compared with the P527.24 billion worth of investment approvals in the January to April period last year, she said the total investments approved so far for this year increased by 15 percent.

She said this year’s approved investments are for 117 projects and are mostly from domestic investors.

In particular, P494.37 billion of the total approved investments for this year are from domestic sources.

Trade Secretary and BOI chairman Alfredo Pascual said it is important to have local firms invest within the country as they also play a role in encouraging foreign firms to consider the Philippines for their business expansion.

“What we really want to encourage in the Philippines is for domestic investors to commit their capital to projects in the Philippines rather than bringing out the money, their capital outside the Philippines,” he said.

He said foreign investors are looking at whether local firms are investing within the country.

In terms of sectors, Recolizado said the majority of the approved projects this year are in renewable energy.

“The biggest project that we have approved is the Ahunan power project,” she said, noting the project was cleared by the BOI just last week.

Located in Laguna, Ahunan Power Inc.’s  hydropower resource and pumped storage hydroelectric power project has a project cost of P296.98 billion.

Ahunan Power is a wholly owned subsidiary of tycoon Enrique Razon Jr.’s Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc.

Recolizado said the second largest project approved by the BOI is the P83.70 billion wind energy project of Ivisan Windkraft Corp., which is 75 percent Singaporean-owned.

Ivisan Windkraft’s wind energy project will be located offshore of Cavite.

Sunday 21 April 2024

Manila tops Global Index in Residential Price

Manila Tops Global Index in Prime Residential Price Increase

Story by the SPOT.ph team
21 April 2024

Manila has topped a global listing again. But whether or not it should be cause for jubilation depends on who's looking. 

The capital has emerged at the top of the Knight Frank Prime Global Cities Index on prime residential prices, reflecting strong growth of the real property market driven by strong demand. 


The listing, which covers 45 real property markets from around the world, showed that Manila logged a growth rate of 26.3 percent year-on-year by the end of 2023. This price growth rate eclipsed other powerhouse cities such as Dubai, a far second at 15.1%, and Mumbai, which recorded a 10% increase. 

Manila’s prime residential price growth is an improvement from its performance in the third quarter of 2023, where it logged a 21.2% increase. This development had also landed Manila at the top spot of the global index in the same quarter. 

Of the 45 global markets covered, Manila was the one that recorded a growth rate above 20%. Other cities in the top 10 are Shanghai, with a growth of 8.6%, Los Angeles at 8.2%, Vancouver at 7.2 percent, Christchurch at 6.8%, Miami at 6.6%, Madrid at 6.4% and Seoul at 6.2 percent.

The average annual price increase was at 3.7% across the 45 markets on the list, the "strongest growth recorded since Q3 2022," the report said. 

"The biggest impact of the rate tightening cycle in the past 12-months has been on sales volumes, which have fallen in most markets by around 10% to 20%. While prices did initially fall as rates rose in 2022, as supply has been squeezed prices have ticked up. Rate cuts in the second half of 2024 will add further impetus to the market," said Liam Bailey, Knight Frank’s global head of research. 

What does it all mean? 

Manila’s standing is a reflection of the country’s strong economic performance, which has spurred housing demand in the capital. The report said the growth of residential prices in Manila was on the back of "rising housing demand, with agents reporting a surge in requirements from expatriates returning to manage local businesses."

This means overseas Filipino workers were funnelling money they had earned overseas to buy property back home as they begin new businesses locally.

But for locals in the market for a new home, this would mean higher prices of houses and condominium units. If you're on the lookout for new digs, you have to make sure you have enough saved up. 

The Prime Global Cities Index (PGCI) is a "valuation-based index" which looks at movements in prime residential prices across 45 cities using research data.