As trading floors closed in 2025, Philippine business leaders were left navigating a year defined less by growth and more by adjustment. Governance risks, policy uncertainty, and shifting consumer behavior shaped boardroom decisions across sectors. These were the business stories that mattered most once the markets stopped moving.
1. Philippine Economic Growth Slowed Sharply
The economy posted its slowest quarterly growth in four years, forcing companies to temper expansion plans. Slower consumption, weaker investment momentum, and cautious lending conditions reshaped corporate forecasts and capital allocation decisions.
2. Infrastructure and Flood Control Controversies Hit Business Confidence
Allegations of corruption tied to flood control and infrastructure spending rattled investor sentiment. Companies dependent on government contracts faced heightened scrutiny, longer approval cycles, and increased compliance risk, while foreign investors reassessed governance exposure.
3. Cabinet Shake-Up Disrupted Economic Policy Continuity
Leadership changes affecting the Executive Secretary and the Budget Secretary introduced uncertainty into fiscal planning and budget execution. Businesses closely monitored signals from the economic cluster as policy clarity became a concern.
4. Interest Rates Remained High, Pressuring Borrowers
Borrowing costs stayed elevated for most of the year, affecting real estate, construction, manufacturing, and consumer lending. Firms prioritized balance sheet strength and delayed debt-funded expansion.
5. Peso Volatility Affected Importers, Exporters, and OFW-Linked Businesses
Currency swings added pressure to companies with dollar exposure. Import-dependent sectors faced margin compression, while exporters and remittance-driven businesses adjusted pricing and hedging strategies.
6. Artificial Intelligence Adoption Accelerated Among Philippine Firms
AI moved beyond pilots as companies adopted automation, analytics, and generative tools to cut costs and improve productivity. BPOs, banks, retailers, and media companies led adoption, widening the gap between digital leaders and laggards.
7. Energy Costs and Power Security Became Strategic Risks
Rising electricity prices and grid reliability concerns pushed energy strategy into boardroom discussions. Companies increased investments in renewables, energy efficiency, and long-term power supply agreements.
8. Banking Sector Profits Rose but Credit Risks Increased
Banks benefited from higher interest margins, but loan growth slowed and credit risk indicators ticked up. Financial institutions balanced profitability with tighter risk controls and continued digital investment.
9. Consumer Spending Turned Selective and Value Driven
Filipino consumers became more cautious, prioritizing essentials and value purchases. Retailers, food companies, and FMCGs adjusted pricing, pack sizes, and promotions to protect volumes.
10. Corporate Governance and Reputation Became Board Priorities
Political instability and corruption controversies underscored the importance of governance and reputation management. Boards spent more time on compliance, stakeholder trust, and crisis preparedness as business and politics became more intertwined.
Bottom Line
For Philippine businesses, 2025 was a year of resilience rather than expansion. Companies that managed risk, controlled costs, and maintained credibility emerged stronger. As the economy heads into 2026, governance, adaptability, and disciplined execution will matter as much as topline growth.