Every June 12, the Philippines marks its Independence Day—but let’s be honest, for many, it’s less about history and more about holiday plans. It’s a day off, a beach trip, or a quick post with a waving flag emoji, a catchy caption, and the obligatory hashtag: #HappyIndependenceDay. And just like that, a moment once defined […]

BDO Unibank has retained its title as the Philippines’ most valuable brand in 2025, with its brand value rising 48% to $3.7 billion, according to the latest annual report by Brand Finance. The banking giant continues to outpace peers on the back of stronger brand equity and solid financials, including gains in customer loans and […]

Gold from the Philippines is mostly mined by hand—but rarely traded above board. With about 500,000 artisanal and small-scale gold miners (ASGM) producing 70% of the country’s gold, formalizing this fragmented sector remains a political, legal, and environmental quagmire. Research conducted by the World Gold Council in early 2025 highlights how underregulated gold processing plants […]

U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks on November 16 during the 31st APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Peru, underscoring the critical need for cooperation and stability in U.S.-China relations. As the U.S. and China explore avenues for improving their relationship, the Philippines stands at a crossroads, facing both opportunities and […]