https://www.scmp.com/rss/318892/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com The Philippines' economy has performed impressively over the last two years, and most experts are predicting a continuation of upward trends.  For instance, in early April, the IMF upped its forecast for GDP growth this year from 6.6 per cent to 6.7 per cent, citing such reasons as strong private construction activity and higher state spending. The Philippines government is even more optimistic, indicating expected GDP expansion of between 7 and 8 per cent, which compares very favourably with... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778781/economy-tipped-maintain-momentum?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778781/economy-tipped-maintain-momentum?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 08:23:16 +0000 The much-hyped "Fight of the Century" between American Floyd Mayweather Jnr and Filipino Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas, Nevada on Sunday May 3 (HK time) has once again put the Philippines in the spotlight.  The fight at the 147 pound (66.7kg) welterweight limit pits the unbeaten five-division world boxing champion Mayweather against Pacquiao, an eight-division world champion.  Every time "Pacman" fights, it is a huge event in his home country, and opponents don't come any bigger than "Money"... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778780/pacman-bids-get-rid-money-highly-anticipated-fight?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778780/pacman-bids-get-rid-money-highly-anticipated-fight?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 08:19:44 +0000 This special report on the Philippines comes at a most opportune time, as the country exhibits steady economic growth. Tourism is one industry that promises strong growth, as visitors from all over the world look for new and exciting destinations. And the Philippines' varied and unique natural attractions offer experiences refreshing and memorable. This year is "Visit the Philippines" year. To further boost tourist arrivals, the Philippines government is busy upgrading seaports, airports,... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778779/message-consul-general-philippines?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778779/message-consul-general-philippines?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 08:16:32 +0000 The Asean economic integration this year may be a massive leap towards the "Asian Century", but it does not come without risks and challenges. The success of the anticipated era rests heavily on Asia's decision-makers in the public and private sectors, whose collaboration is integral to the region's economic growth. "Equipping Asia's young and upcoming business leaders with the skills to navigate an evolving global landscape in the Asean context is imperative now more than ever," says Steven... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778768/aim-equips-aseans-next-leaders-evolving-business-landscape?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778768/aim-equips-aseans-next-leaders-evolving-business-landscape?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 08:03:46 +0000 In 2013, the Philippines was struck by Super Typhoon Haiyan, a category 5 tropical cyclone. Amid the devastation and destruction, the Philippine economy recorded a 7.2 per cent growth and was the second-fastest growing economy in Southeast Asia that year.  Exhibiting remarkable resiliency, the Philippines is primed to continue its upward trajectory. First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP), the country's leading industrial property, aims to be one of the catalysts that will further propel the... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778764/fpip-supports-resurgence-manufacturing-industry?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778764/fpip-supports-resurgence-manufacturing-industry?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 07:56:35 +0000 With its outstanding features, the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) has been touted as the economic dragon of the Philippines, attracting major industries in the manufacturing sector, business process outsourcing (BPO) and information technology (IT). Among all FAB locators, Grand Innovasia Concept Corp (GICC) is the only Master Licensor for BPO Online/Interactive Gaming for the international market. GICC is building the first techno park in the free port, which will serve as GICC's centre for BPO... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778720/bataan-free-port-offers-excellent-attractions-hosts-gicc?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778720/bataan-free-port-offers-excellent-attractions-hosts-gicc?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 07:23:19 +0000 Rife with opportunities, the Philippines presents international investors with myriad possibilities that come with the challenge of navigating the country's intricate legal system - manoeuvrable only with the right partner. "Investments in tourism, services and business process outsourcing, among other booming sectors, are for the picking," says Emerico De Guzman, managing partner at Angara Abello Concepcion Regala & Cruz Law Offices (ACCRALAW), the country's premier multidisciplinary law firm.... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778712/accralaw-helps-global-investors-navigate-intricate-legal-system?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778712/accralaw-helps-global-investors-navigate-intricate-legal-system?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 07:14:41 +0000 Brimming with the right fundamentals, the Philippines' property market sits on a sweet spot. The country is among Southeast Asia's fastest-growing economies with a forecast growth of 6.3 per cent this year, making it a favoured location for multinationals and outsourcing companies.  In Asia, it has the lowest rental rate and the highest prime office yields averaging at 10 per cent. In this year's Emerging Trends in Real Estate Asia-Pacific survey published by the Urban Land Institute and PwC,... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778703/anchor-land-surges-ahead-upscale-property-projects?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778703/anchor-land-surges-ahead-upscale-property-projects?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 07:02:07 +0000 If there is one name that could sum up the reasons why global investors should capitalise on the Philippines, it would be GT Capital Holdings. Operating in nearly all major industries that are driving the local economy, the group exemplifies not just what the country already has to offer, but the limitless possibilities it presents - given the right opportunities. GT Capital is behind some of the country's most dynamic companies in the banking, property development, power generation, automotive... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778696/gt-capital-maximising-synergies-through-diversity?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778696/gt-capital-maximising-synergies-through-diversity?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 06:50:20 +0000 With the Philippines emerging as one of the world's hottest investment destinations, Metropolitan Bank and Trust (Metrobank) gives foreign investors a head start as the country's dominant player with the largest domestic coverage.  The second-largest bank in the country, Metrobank has 920 consolidated branches nationwide, boasting a well-diversified presence in the Visayas and Mindanao. Its reach in such regional pockets has helped many small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) grow into local... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778689/metrobanks-industry-leading-positions-bode-well-investment-growth?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778689/metrobanks-industry-leading-positions-bode-well-investment-growth?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 06:39:37 +0000 Located 40km south of Manila, the 82-hectare Toyota Special Economic Zone in Santa Rosa city, Laguna, is bustling with activity. The excitement at the headquarters of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), the country's largest vehicle manufacturer, mirrors the phenomenal uptrend in the local automotive industry. Last year, overall passenger car sales nationwide posted a record growth of nearly 50 per cent. At the frontline is TMP, with sales breaching the 100,000-car mark, further expanding its market... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778638/toyota-drives-progress-local-vehicle-industry?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778638/toyota-drives-progress-local-vehicle-industry?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 04:59:31 +0000 The Philippines was able to achieve investment grade status on the back of its growing business process outsourcing industry and regular inflow of overseas remittance money. However, to realise its trajectory of being the new Asian tiger economy, basic infrastructure, such as electricity, has to be in place. Expensive utility rates are seen to affect the anticipated surge in foreign direct investments. Global Business Power Corp (GBP) has witnessed how the expansion of its generation capacity in... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778631/empowering-national-development-viable-energy-base?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778631/empowering-national-development-viable-energy-base?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 04:53:27 +0000 As the country's global credit ratings continue to improve, international businesses and investors turn to the Philippines as an attractive destination for capital flows.  First Metro Investment Corp (First Metro), the Philippines' leading and largest investment bank, maintains optimism in the country's growth markets.  "Ratings upgrade is a badge of good housekeeping, and now is the perfect opportunity to ride into the stock market upswing," says First Metro president  Roberto Juanchito Dispo.... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778628/first-metro-brings-service-excellence-capital-markets?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778628/first-metro-brings-service-excellence-capital-markets?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 04:49:46 +0000 Federal Land's flagship project, GT International Tower, captivates onlookers with its magnificent blade-like apex piercing the skyline of Makati's corporate district. From the developers of this iconic building comes another architectural marvel - the Grand Hyatt Hotel and Grand Hyatt Manila Residences complex rising in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), an upscale business and residential centre close to Makati.  Federal Land, a member of major conglomerate GT Capital Holdings, has been at the... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778625/federal-land-instils-global-flair-local-property-development?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778625/federal-land-instils-global-flair-local-property-development?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 04:44:57 +0000 The leasing and finance industry in the Philippines is making even greater strides, benefitting from historic developments ushered in by the country's sustained economic growth since 2010. Well-positioned to take advantage of these market opportunities is veteran leasing company ORIX METRO Leasing and Finance Corp.  A joint venture between Metropolitan Bank and Trust (Metrobank) and ORIX Corp from Japan, ORIX METRO has capitalised on the strengths of its parent firms to differentiate itself as a... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778624/orix-metro-stays-ahead-providing-expert-leasing-solutions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778624/orix-metro-stays-ahead-providing-expert-leasing-solutions?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 04:42:05 +0000 As one of the most prominent and longest-operating local air conditioning and refrigeration companies in the Philippines, Concepcion Industrial Corp (CIC) understands the Filipino consumer by heart.  The company has established its track record by introducing automatic timers into air conditioning units, knowing that Filipino families switch between air conditioning and fans throughout the night to save on electricity. CIC also launched refrigerators with larger freezer compartments as many... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778610/cic-delivers-solutions-through-ingenuity-trusted-partnerships?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778610/cic-delivers-solutions-through-ingenuity-trusted-partnerships?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 04:26:36 +0000 Doing business in the Philippines is rewarding for many clients of Siguion Reyna, Montecillo and Ongsiako (SRMO). Among the country's oldest law firms with 113 years of experience in foreign investments, SRMO has recognised expertise in a wide range of areas such as banking, mining, manufacturing, telecommunications, infrastructure, real estate, power and business outsourcing.  "We meet client expectations - that's the bottom line in the business world," says Cesar Manalaysay, managing partner.... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778594/srmo-dispels-business-risks-legal-finesse?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778594/srmo-dispels-business-risks-legal-finesse?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 03:53:49 +0000 After weathering crises and catastrophes, Simbulan Group has remained unstoppable in forging new successes every year. Through its flagship subsidiaries - furniture exporter Simbulan Industries Philippines and construction firm RG Simbulan and Partners - the group has evolved as a leading design and manufacturing company in the Philippines. Providing quality project management, furniture, furnishings and builders' woodworks, Simbulan has made interior design fit-out works its core business. This... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778593/simbulan-harnesses-core-strengths-asian-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778593/simbulan-harnesses-core-strengths-asian-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 03:50:44 +0000 In 1987, former Intel senior engineer Ramon Castillo had an ambition: to create more jobs in the Philippines and contribute to economic growth. Aiming to build a home-grown Filipino technology company engaged in innovative electronics, Castillo formally launched Innovatronix in 1991. The company has since evolved from a small player in the local electronics industry to a strong business with diverse interests in photography equipment, power electronics, electric vehicles and aquaculture... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778592/innovatronix-bolsters-local-tech-industry-through-niche-expertise?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778592/innovatronix-bolsters-local-tech-industry-through-niche-expertise?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 03:46:56 +0000 Subic Bay, the historic inlet coveted by Spanish colonisers and developed as a major Unites States naval base, continues to make waves as an investment haven, tourist destination, logistics hub and site of the world's fourth-largest shipbuilding yard. Situated 100km north of Manila and reborn in 1992 as the first Philippine free port, Subic has become the preferred address of more than 1,500 business locators. Its scenic international airport is also the top choice of flight schools and other... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778584/subic-bay-offers-investors-world-class-free-port-facilities?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778584/subic-bay-offers-investors-world-class-free-port-facilities?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 03:44:08 +0000 Long before the business process outsourcing industry became a powerhouse for the Philippine economy, SGV & Co harnessed Filipino talent with a global mindset. Since its founding in 1946, the Philippines' largest and only ISO 9001-certified professional services firm has endeavoured to develop world-class professionals by delivering assurance, tax, transaction, and advisory solutions to local and foreign clients.  Last year, it came full circle with plans to expand its Asia-Pacific Talent Hub... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778581/sgv-showcases-filipino-potential-borderless-world?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778581/sgv-showcases-filipino-potential-borderless-world?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 03:41:01 +0000 The Philippines' pioneering steel bar manufacturer is in a celebratory mood. Hurdling 50 challenging years and several market crises, Pag-asa Steel Works is one of the few surviving steel businesses that have made a mark in the country after the second world war. Grounded on the values of high quality, dependable service and competitiveness, Pag-asa Steel continues to advance as it scales up its production to triple its capacity. "We became a trusted partner in an industry where 80 per cent of... https://www.scmp.com/article/1778577/pag-asa-steel-works-marks-50th-year-tripling-production-capacity?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1778577/pag-asa-steel-works-marks-50th-year-tripling-production-capacity?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Apr 2015 03:36:21 +0000 Greenhills Shopping Center is a landmark in the Philippine property market, evoking fond memories among many Filipino business leaders and tourists of all kinds. Such sentimental affinity reflects the legacy of Ortigas & Company, the group behind this well-loved property and one of the Philippines' first mixed-use developers. It has seen the country through various boom-and-bust cycles and is approaching the future with renewed vigour.  "Ortigas is like an 83-year-old man that has seen... https://www.scmp.com/article/1777703/ortigas-company-holds-its-ground-well-loved-properties?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1777703/ortigas-company-holds-its-ground-well-loved-properties?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2015 08:18:10 +0000 Posting an economic growth of between 6 and 7 per cent in the last three years against a backdrop of global uncertainties, the Philippines has emerged as Southeast Asia's fastest-growing economy. Amid the country's robust economic performance, leading conglomerate SM Investments (SM) has embarked on an aggressive plan of expansion, harnessing the strengths of its highly synergistic core businesses in retail, banking and property development. "SM is committed to bringing growth and world-class... https://www.scmp.com/article/1777697/sm-sustains-phenomenal-growth-launches-aggressive-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1777697/sm-sustains-phenomenal-growth-launches-aggressive-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2015 08:12:41 +0000 Asian investors are taking a closer look at the Philippines as an attractive location for their companies' growth plans. With net foreign direct investments surging 64 per cent to reach US$5.32 billion in the first 10 months of last year, the developing nation is pulling ahead in terms of economic growth and attracting booming industries.  The entry of new locators and the expansion of existing players in industrial zones such as Laguna Technopark have also boosted interest from small and medium... https://www.scmp.com/article/1777666/laguna-technopark-expands-new-site-leasing-facilities?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1777666/laguna-technopark-expands-new-site-leasing-facilities?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2015 07:30:23 +0000 When Jolliville Holdings modernised the water system of Calapan in Oriental Mindoro, the company did not just pave the way for clean water provisions. It also converted the sleepy town into a bustling city as it became more feasible for investors to set up businesses in the area. "Before Jolliville intervened, the water in Calapan was dirty, murky and smelly. The mayor approached us and asked for our help in finding investors to improve the water system," says Jolly Ting, CEO and chairman of... https://www.scmp.com/article/1777657/jolliville-seeks-new-opportunities-develop-and-transform-nation?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1777657/jolliville-seeks-new-opportunities-develop-and-transform-nation?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2015 07:17:07 +0000 As Manila's overcrowded property market crests in the wake of a booming economy in the Philippines, Italpinas Development Corp paves the way in sustainable real estate development towards the country's next economic frontiers. The dynamic company offers foreign investors a strategic inroad to the country's unrecognised yet hyper-prospective second-tier cities and regions.  "We engage ourselves in secondary cities because we have seen that the big opportunities are now outside Metro Manila," says... https://www.scmp.com/article/1777649/italpinas-promotes-sustainable-growth-countrys-property-sector?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1777649/italpinas-promotes-sustainable-growth-countrys-property-sector?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2015 07:11:37 +0000 Emerging economies face a crucial need to strengthen their power infrastructure, as industrial growth gives way to rising demand for electricity and energy efficiency.  With more than 45 years of experience as the Philippines' pioneering manufacturer of distribution transformers, First Philippine Electric Corp (First Philec) stands to be the partner of choice for Asia-Pacific collaborations in quality power generation, transmission and distribution. "We are a total solutions provider for the... https://www.scmp.com/article/1777645/first-philec-leads-southeast-asia-amorphous-transformers?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1777645/first-philec-leads-southeast-asia-amorphous-transformers?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2015 07:07:57 +0000 More global firms are turning to contract packaging manufacturers to maximise their brand's shelf impact and to increase sales potential. In the Philippines, Innovative Packaging Industry has successfully positioned itself as a partner of choice for multinational companies seeking value-added packaging solutions.  "Being in a high-volume, cost-sensitive market, we create packaging products that have price impact to our clients and end-consumers," says Almay Gaw-See, executive vice-president.... https://www.scmp.com/article/1777643/providing-innovative-packaging-solutions-concept-shelf?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1777643/providing-innovative-packaging-solutions-concept-shelf?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2015 06:58:41 +0000 Comprehending the local law is a must for investors pursuing a new market - and so is finding a law firm with whom to weave through a dynamic, complex legal system such as that of the Philippines. "It is a tough market to break into, but the Philippines is a lucrative destination that has yet to realise its full potential," says Mel Macaraig, managing partner at the law firm of Castillo Laman Tan Pantaleon & San Jose (CLTPSJ). CLTPSJ has been an essential part of the Philippines' modern legal... https://www.scmp.com/article/1777636/cltpsj-helps-clients-understand-adapt-changing-laws?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1777636/cltpsj-helps-clients-understand-adapt-changing-laws?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2015 06:50:29 +0000 Scoring favourable investment grade ratings from global industry experts has made the Philippines among the most attractive markets to invest in today. While opportunities are growing every day, the key to successful investments lies in partnering with a select few whose expertise encompasses local influence, regional strength and global access.  Maybank ATR Kim Eng Capital Partners (Maybank ATR Kim Eng) comes to the fore as the investment bank of choice for investors with a long-term view, not... https://www.scmp.com/article/1777635/maybank-atr-kim-eng-provides-investors-local-influence-regional-strength?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1777635/maybank-atr-kim-eng-provides-investors-local-influence-regional-strength?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Apr 2015 06:45:32 +0000