Finding the Philippines’ economic mojo

The year is 2025. Philippine equity markets are underperforming. The currency is pressured. The tag of “fastest growing economy in the region” has been unceremoniously handed over to a neighbor with GDP growth at the slowest since the pandemic.

Just a short 10 years ago, the Philippine economy could do no wrong. The Philippines had successfully graduated to investment grade status. The peso was markedly more stable. The equity and bond markets were decidedly more upbeat. GDP growth was not only vibrant but had early signs of finally reaching a wider range of the population. Back then the Philippines trotted around the yard like a triple crown winner poised for even higher heights. Fast forward to today, however, and it appears to be a different story.

Back to basics

So what now? How can th