Category: Business Mirror

EVEN with the appeal of the religious sect Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), Malacañang refused to budge on its position not to interfere with the investigation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI).

INC had called on the ICI to make its hearings public to ensure the credibility of its recommendations on cases which should be filed against contractors as well as government officials and personnel involved in anomalous public works.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Wednesday that while President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shares the position of the INC, he maintained his position not to interfere with its affairs.

‘The President, in all circumstances, wants transparency. In all investigations, there should be transparency, nothing is hidden,’ she said in Filipino in a press briefing in Malacañang last Wednesday.

‘But how the ICI will do this, how it can be made public, how they will be transparent and to what extent, that is up to the ICI,’ she added.

INC is considered an influential religious group since its members are known for exercising bloc voting during elections, which gives advantage to the candidates it will endorse.

When asked about the move in Congress to pass a bill, which will give more powers to the ICI, Castro said that the President will study the proposal.

‘Maybe we should see first the detailed information [of the bill] so we can study it and if it is necessary to issue a certificate for urgency [for the bill]. That is what the President will do after he reads what they will [propose],’ Castro said.

There were rumors that one member of the three-man ICI already wanted to resign due to supposed lack of powers. Castro said the ICI already denied that rumor.

Created by Executive Order (EO) No. 94, the three-member ICI was tasked to investigate substandard and non-existent flood control projects.

The creation of the ICI drew criticism from some groups since its role was only to recommend to concerned government agencies the prosecution of the involved individuals or parties.

Castro, however, defended the ICI’s creation, saying it will fast-track the investigation and filing of charges against the erring parties.

‘Would they want only the Ombudsman to work [on these cases]? So how long will it take us to finish a case?’ she said.

‘So, there really needs to be an independent commission that will focus and collect, investigate documents so that when they are submitted and recommended for filing, they can just review them,’ she added.

The IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) has denounced the ‘irresponsible declaration’ made by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Region 7 which ‘prematurely’ identified several IT-BPM firms that have been ordered to halt operations for alleged labor rights violations.

IBPAP said none of the accounts of its four member companies named by the BPO Industry Employee Network (BIEN) confirmed that employees were prevented from leaving the production area despite the earthquake, particularly regarding the blocking of exits, and forced to return to their workstations without safety clearance.

However, BIEN criticized IBPAP for what it described as an attempt to downplay safety violations raised by Cebu-based workers during and after the recent earthquake. In a statement on Thursday, BIEN said IBPAP’s remarks ‘attacked’ both DOLE Region 7 and employees who reported being forced to return to work despite ongoing aftershocks.

‘IBPAP denounces this irresponsible declaration by DOLE Region 7, which prematurely named companies without the benefit of impartial investigation or validation,’ it said.

The group said such actions ‘run contrary to the principles of fairness and good faith expected of a government agency that serves as a partner of both workers and employers in ensuring safe and decent workplaces.’

It added that the ‘reckless naming’ of companies before the Senate and in the media ‘damages reputations, causes confusion among employees, and creates undue alarm among global clients whose confidence directly impacts investment, business continuity, retention, and creation of jobs in the Philippines.’

The industry group said this misinformation has ‘serious’ international repercussions.

For one, it said business process outsourcing (BPO) clients who entrust critical operations to the Philippines may begin to see the country as ‘unreliable, inconsistent, and non-compliant’ in its regulatory practices.

Further, IBPAP said such a perception ‘erodes confidence, drives business to competing destinations, and jeopardizes the very jobs and revenues the Philippine IT-BPM industry has worked hard to secure.’

The industry group also expressed concern that clients may become ‘hesitant’ to expand outside Metro Manila, ‘undermining countryside development opportunities where these jobs are most needed and where DOLE itself aims to create and safeguard livelihoods.’

Since the initial reports surfaced, IBPAP said it has been in active communication with DOLE National Capital Region to request the official list of companies involved, along with corresponding complaints, reports, and allegations made by BIEN, which IBPAP said, does not represent the IT-BPM industry in the Philippines.

‘Despite these repeated efforts, no documentation has been provided to date,’ IBPAP said. ‘It is therefore disappointing for IBPAP to learn about this information only through a statement made during the Senate hearing that was subsequently published in an online news article.’

IBPAP said the findings from its inquiry ‘disprove’ BIEN’s claims of widespread employee safety violations among IT-BPM employers during the Cebu earthquake.

‘Their sweeping accusations cast the entire industry in an unfavorable light and unfairly generalize IT-BPM companies as non-compliant with labor laws, despite long-standing and consistent adherence to labor and safety standards,’ it added.

The industry group said it is ‘highly irregular’ that DOLE Region 7 conducted an inspection of a company supposedly included in the alleged work stoppage order only in the evening after the Senate inquiry.

‘This was reported to IBPAP as the inspection was happening in Cebu. The fact that a BIEN representative accompanied DOLE during this inspection raises questions about impartiality, given BIEN’s highly biased stance against IT-BPM employers for alleged violations of employee safety standards,’ it said.

‘We therefore urge the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to investigate this matter thoroughly and issue a clarificatory statement on how it is being handled. Furthermore, we insist that DOLE Region 7 rectify its records and remove the names of companies that were included in the report submitted to the Senate Committee on Labor and Employment,’ it added.

‘Documented incidents’

‘There was an earthquake. There were evacuation failures. There were workers forced to return to their stations while aftershocks continued,’ BIEN said. ‘These are not rumors. They are documented incidents, supported by workers’ testimonies, photos, videos, and reports from multiple Cebu BPO sites.’

The group said labeling these accounts as ‘unverified’ or ‘misinformation’ denies the experiences of workers who feared for their safety.

It added that the incidents showed ‘clear breaches’ of occupational safety and health (OSH) standards.

‘When ceilings crack, exits are blocked, and employees are ordered to resume calls despite shaking floors, no amount of corporate spin can erase the fact that OSH standards were violated,’ BIEN added.

According to BIEN, IBPAP’s response reflects its intent to ‘protect industry interests’ rather than address the safety concerns of employees.

‘IBPAP’s statement exposes who they truly represent: not the 1.9 million workers they claim to speak for, but the business owners and foreign clients whose profits depend on uninterrupted operations, even in the face of danger,’ BIEN said.

BIEN added that IBPAP’s concern over reputational harm and investor confidence ‘misses the point,’ noting that the real threat to the industry’s image comes from unsafe workplaces, not from workers speaking out.

‘If IBPAP truly values the integrity of the industry, it should hold its member companies accountable instead of gaslighting the very workers who keep this $40-billion sector running,’ the group said.

BIEN also urged DOLE to remain firm in enforcing labor standards, saying its role is to protect workers, not companies.

It said the work stoppage orders issued in Cebu were a ‘necessary step’ to prevent further harm and compel compliance with safety regulations.

The group added that full transparency is needed by releasing the list of firms found to have violated OSH standards and the corrective actions implemented.

THE Philippines’s oldest distillery, Destileria Limtuaco Co. Inc., is gaining new markets and is looking forward to boosting its exports this year.

In an interview with the BusinessMirror, company president Olivia Limpe-Aw said: ‘For the 2025 exports, we are targeting a significant increase over 2024, driven by strong product demand and a surge in inquiries,’ although she declined to give hard figures.

She added that the company has ‘recovered in terms of sales volume and operational capacity, with several markets now exceeding pre-pandemic performance due to renewed consumer demand and expanded distribution channels. However, we continue to monitor and adapt to changing regulations on alcoholic beverages in certain countries.’

The company is specifically trying to strengthen its presence in the Middle East, ironically a market that normally does not consume alochol due to religious purposes. However, Limpe-Aw noted the brisk business of its premium liquor products, with the company also ‘entering the Halal market. We have already introduced Maria Clara Punch, a non-alcoholic drink that is Halal-certified.’

Growing liquor market in UAE

According to Mordor Intelligence, the Middle East and Africa alcoholic beverages market size is estimated at US$154.11 billion this year, and is projected to reach $216.45 billion by 2030, registering a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.03 percent.

The United Arab Emirates has recorded the highest growth rate in the region with an 8.23-percent CAGR through 2030. ‘This growth stems from a strong business tourism sector that attracts international travelers with high alcoholic beverage consumption. The UAE’s expatriate population contributes significantly to market expansion by creating demand for diverse beers, wines, and spirits. Regulatory changes, including simplified licensing processes and new consumption zones, have enhanced the premium and luxury alcoholic beverage segments. These policy updates have increased foreign investment and new brand entries, expanding product variety,’ the report noted.

As for the United States market, Limpe-Aw said the Trump administration’s recent tariffs will ‘definitely have an impact [on our sales], but it’s a wait-and-see for now.’ Washington imposed a 19-percent import duty on Philippine products, including hard liquor.

The company’s most popular products in the US are the Manille Liqueur de Calamansi and Manille Liqueur de Dalandan. In other export markets, the company’s top performers are the White Castle Whiskey range, followed by its Philippine Craft Spirits.

Sluggish local sales

While Destileria Limtuaco’s export market has been expanding, domestic sales have been tepid, however.

‘Following the revenge spending of 2022, we have noticed steady stagnant growth, while total demand has dropped owing largely to the changing consumer behavior of the Gen-Z market,’ she said.

Research by Nielsen IQ showed 42 percent of Filipino respondents said they were drinking less, exceeding the 30-percent average in Asia Pacific.

In addition, Filipinos have found a ‘renewed interest in alternative beverages’ due to their growing focus on health and wellness, said Limpe-Aw.

Still, the company executive is ‘expecting 2026 to be better.’

World Drinks winners

Destileria Limtuaco recently stirred attention at the World Drinks Awards 2025 in London with its standout spirits. Four products from the company’s flagship Philippine Craft Spirits line were recognized specifically under the World Liqueurs Awards category, for excellence in taste, concept and innovation-solidifying the brand’s position as a pioneer in the global liqueur scene.

Intramuros Liqueur de Cacao took home the title of World’s Best Chocolate Liqueur. Manille Liqueur de Calamansi won Gold and was also named Country’s (Philippines) Best in the Fruit Liqueur category. The Amadeo Coffee Liqueur was awarded Country’s (Philippines) Best Coffee Liqueur. The newest addition to the brand’s lineup, Cocohogo Coconut Cream Liqueur, received Bronze in the Vegan Alternative (Philippines) category.

The Observatory of Economic Complexity website said the Philippines exported $10.3 million of hard liquor in 2024, with its top markets as the Netherlands ($2.97 million), France ($2.4 million), Taiwan ($1.26 million), the US ($701,000), and the UAE ($670,000). The UAE recorded the fastest-growing market for Philippine hard liquor products versus 2023.

Destileria Limtuaco was established in 1852 and now sells more than 40 spirits, wines and liqueurs, including tropical-fruit blends, and exports within Asia, the US, and the Middle East. Its products consist of distilled spirits, whiskies, brandies, gins, rums, vodkas, tequilas, cocktails, herbal and sweet wines, and the original medicinal wines.

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) may continue reducing interest rates as the new ‘goldilocks rate’ for key policy rates is now expected to be below 5 percent.

On Thursday, the Monetary Board decided to reduce policy rates by 25 basis points to 4.75 percent. This is the lowest policy rate recorded by the country since September 2022 when rates were raised by 50 basis points to 4.25 percent.

The goldilocks rate or ‘sweet spot’ for policy rates, Remolona said, may be closer to 4 percent now compared to the initial assessment of 5 percent. Given this, the Monetary Board is keen on continuing its easing cycle.

‘We now think the gap is wider than we thought. In light of new research, we have also shifted our estimate of the goldilocks rate. We believe it could be lower than before, giving us more room to reduce the policy rate,’ Remolona said.

‘Early on, we see more scope for more accommodative monetary policy. The favorable inflation outlook and moderating domestic demand provide room for monetary policy to further support economic growth and employment,’ he added.

Based on the latest inflation estimates, the BSP has maintained its inflation outlook of 1.7 percent in 2025, but adjusted downward its forecasts for inflation next year and next year.

Initially, BSP Deputy Governor Zeno Ronald Abenoja said inflation was estimated to average 3.3 percent next year but given the latest projects, this is now down to 3.1 percent.

For 2027, Abenoja said inflation was initially set at 3.4 percent but after today’s policy meeting, the BSP has reduced this to only 2.8 percent.

‘We now find [the] inflation outlook to be quite benign. Inflation expectations remain well upward, but adjustments to electricity rates and possible increases in tariffs on rice imports pose some risks. But these risks look limited,’ Remolona said.

In terms of growth rates, Abenoja said, growth will likely be at the low end of the government’s targets at 5.5 percent this year and 6 percent next year and in 2027.

Remolona said this growth outlook was affected by governance concerns surrounding public infrastructure spending, which has weighed on business sentiment.

He noted that the stock market has declined and that there are now fewer companies with expansion plans. He also noted that there were days when both the stock market declined and the peso depreciated at the same time, which signified that investors were leaving.

Nonetheless, Remolona said, the BSP is not going to intervene in the foreign exchange market ‘against those [out]flows.’ ‘We would defend the peso, when we think that the depreciation is so sharp and so large that we think it could be highly inflationary,’ he also said.

In a statement, BSP said potential electricity rate adjustments and possible increases in tariffs on rice imports could add some upward pressures. Nonetheless, the risks to the inflation outlook are limited as price pressures are expected to ease.

The Monetary Board likewise noted that the outlook for domestic economic growth has weakened. This outlook reflected in part the impact on business confidence of governance concerns about public infrastructure spending. Indications of moderating demand also reflect lingering uncertainty from the external environment.

On balance, the Monetary Board sees scope for a more accommodative monetary policy stance. The favorable inflation outlook and moderating domestic demand provide room to further support economic activity.

As the impact of earlier policy action works through the economy, the BSP will remain attentive to emerging risks while maintaining price stability conducive to sustainable growth and employment.

THERE is a familiar saying that you cannot pour from an empty cup. It sounds simple enough, but in the rush of everyday life, many people forget what it really means. Everyone has felt the weight of trying to meet expectations at work, care for family, or support friends while quietly feeling tired or drained. You may convince yourself that you are fine because you are still showing up and doing what is expected. Yet over time, running on empty catches up with you. You become less patient, less inspired, and less able to give the best of yourself.

Self-care is not a reward for finishing your to-do list. It is a basic need, just like sleep or food. When you do not make time to refill your cup, you end up giving others what is left of you instead of what is best in you. The challenge is that society often praises being busy and self-sacrifice. People are told that productivity equals worth, and that taking a break is a sign of weakness. But think of it this way: if your phone battery is low, you plug it in to recharge. You do not expect it to keep working nonstop. Your body and mind are no different.

One way to start filling your cup again is to notice the signs that it is running low. Do you feel constantly tired even after sleeping? Do you get irritated easily or lose motivation for things that used to excite you? These are signals that your energy is being spent faster than it is replenished. Recognizing these signs early allows you to pause before burnout sets in. For example, if you notice that you are snapping at loved ones or dreading your usual tasks, it might be time to step back and rest.

Rest does not always mean taking a long vacation, although that helps. It can be as simple as sitting quietly with a cup of coffee in the morning before checking your phone. It can mean saying no to an extra commitment or allowing yourself to spend a weekend without any plans. The goal is to create small moments that remind you to breathe and reconnect with yourself. You do not have to earn rest. You simply deserve it because you are human.

Another way to refill your cup is to do things that bring you genuine joy, not just things that seem productive. It might be reading a book, cooking your favorite meal, tending to a garden, or taking a walk with music in your ears. For some, it could be spending time in nature or talking with a trusted friend. These activities seem simple, yet they restore balance and give you emotional fuel. They remind you that life is not only about output but also about connection and fulfillment.

Setting boundaries is another form of self-care that many overlook. You may feel guilty for turning down requests or saying no, especially when you want to help others. But healthy boundaries protect both you and the people around you. They ensure that when you do say yes, you mean it wholeheartedly. Think of a teacher who stays late every night to help students and skips meals and sleep. Eventually, that teacher becomes too exhausted to teach well. By setting limits, that same teacher can continue to give meaningful support without sacrificing personal health. Filling your own cup also means taking care of your physical well-being. Proper sleep, balanced meals, and movement are not luxuries. They are foundations for a clear mind and steady energy. Even short daily walks can lift your mood and lower stress. Drinking enough water and eating real food instead of quick snacks can make a noticeable difference in how you feel. When your body is cared for, your mind becomes sharper and more resilient.

It also helps to practice gratitude. Each day, take a few minutes to think of three things that went well or that you are thankful for. This small habit trains your mind to focus on what nourishes you rather than what drains you. Gratitude fills your cup from within by reminding you of the goodness already present in your life.

Lastly, remember that you are not alone in feeling depleted. Everyone reaches that point at some time. Talking to others about it can lighten the load. You might find that your friends or colleagues feel the same way. Together, you can encourage one another to slow down, rest, and make self-care a shared value rather than a private struggle.

Filling your cup is not about becoming self centered. It is about sustainability. You cannot give compassion, energy, or wisdom if you are running on empty. When you take time to restore yourself, you actually become more patient, creative and generous. You show up as your best self, not your most exhausted one.

The truth is that caring for yourself is one of the most responsible things you can do. It allows you to keep giving in ways that are meaningful and lasting. So the next time you feel guilty for taking a break, remember that it is not indulgence. It is maintenance. You would not drive a car on an empty tank and expect it to keep going. In the same way, you cannot keep giving to others if you do not first take care of yourself. Fill your cup, and everything else will flow more easily.

Robinsons Movieworld, through its Premier Cinemas, has launched the second season of CineArts, a cultural cinema program bringing curated world-class ballet, opera, and concert performances from London’s prestigious Royal Opera House to the big screen.

‘Our team has curated all of these titles for everyone to enjoy and experience on the big screen, and they’re very accessible in terms of location,’ Robinsons Movieworld General Manager Bomboy Lim told BusinessMirror on the sidelines of the exclusive premiere of Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe at the VIP Cinemas of Opus Mall.

He added that the program allows Filipino audiences to experience international stage productions on the big screen even if they miss the live performances abroad.

Lim noted that the first season of CineArts received a strong response earlier this year, prompting management to continue the program.

For its second season, which has been extended until 2026, CineArts will feature the following highlights:

Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe – September 23, September 30, October 7 and 14

Royal Opera: Tosca – November 4 and 11

Royal Ballet: Cinderella (2024) – November 18, 25 and December 2

Royal Ballet: The Nutcracker – December 9, 16, 23 and January 13

Royal Opera: La Traviata – February 10, 17, 24 and March 3

Royal Ballet: Woolf Works – March 10, 17 and 24

Royal Ballet: Giselle – March 31, April 7, 14 and 21

Royal Opera: Siegfried – April 28, May 5, 12 and 19

Royal Opera: The Magic Flute – May 26, June 2 and 9

According to Cris Espela, marketing manager for Robinsons World, the new season has been planned more deliberately, with screening dates already set through next year compared to the previous run, which was still finding its footing.

Espela added that while the Opus Mall screening offered a more luxury-focused atmosphere, the current lineup is geared toward the core audience that enjoys these types of performances.

CineArts will run every Tuesday at the Opus VIP Cinema and NUSTAR VIP Cinema, with ticket prices starting at P900.

Sight-saving should be a shared mission.

This was the call of healthcare leaders, government officials, patient advocates, and international partners who came together to address the growing burden of vision-related illnesses in the Philippines.

At a high-level roundtable organized by the Swiss Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines and the Embassy of Switzerland, in partnership with Roche (Philippines) Inc. (hereafter, ‘Roche’), stakeholders, including the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and medical societies such as the Philippine Academy of

Ophthalmology (PAO), Vitreo-Retina Society of the Philippines (VRSP), and the Tzu Chi Foundation underscored the urgent need to develop Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) for retinal diseases such as Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) and Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration (nAMD).

‘Access challenges for innovative medicines for retinal disease continue to be a big challenge here. And there are no updated clinical practice guidelines or approved newer medicines in the Philippine national formulary. But at the same time, there’s hope,’ said Hans-Christian Brumann, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Switzerland in the Philippines.

‘Because in the end, this isn’t just about abstract discussions on medicines or policies. This is about enabling a grandmother in Cebu to continue being able to see her grandchild. It’s about enabling a worker in Manila to continue providing for his family or a student in Davao to pursue his dreams and continue his studies,’ he added.

CPGs as the Way Forward

Experts from DOH and PhilHealth acknowledged that while financing mechanisms exist, clear and standardized CPGs are necessary to formally integrate retinal care into the national benefit package.

Dr. Mary Antonette Remonte, Head of the Primary Care Project Management Team at PhilHealth, emphasized the importance of early intervention for eye diseases but admitted that logistical hurdles remain.

‘Retinal blindness is important. Right now, the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology is actually pushing to create its own, even willing to fund its own. But logistics are really difficult. The institutions that will actually make the CPGs are very few and far between. So that’s also the challenge,’ she noted.

As a way forward, Dr. Ofelia Alcantara, Office of the Secretary Health Consultant at the DOH, suggested crafting localized CPGs that prioritize DME and nAMD.

‘Right now, the program is already there. We just need to integrate these two illnesses as priority. Then maybe the group can actually look at what it is that we can do at the primary care with the mayors and the primary care physicians,’ she shared.

Alcantara also highlighted the potential of clinical pathways and the need for more information and data to guide decision-makers. She noted that the DOH is in the process of crafting the national eye health program.

‘If we don’t have the CPG, PhilHealth can just do the clinical pathway at this point. That’s what we did for (the) stroke. We didn’t have the CPG at that time but we used clinical pathways. Because we need to look at the patient, as well as what is the pathway up to East Avenue Medical Center and national apex,’ she explained.

Dr. Romulo Aguilar, one of the founders of the VRSP, expressed hope that CPGs for retinal diseases will eventually be prioritized, as they collaborate with the government as well.

‘I think VRSP and PAO will really just have to partner with private organizations to tackle the burden of retinal diseases. And I hope at the end, these lenses will align so that we can focus on retinal diseases and come up with some good recommendations,’ he said.

A key hurdle is the limited access to innovative medicines that are not yet included in the Philippine National Formulary (PNF), posing challenges for patients and providers alike.

Roche reaffirmed its long-term commitment to improving patient access by supporting the creation of CPGs, sharing local data, and implementing initiatives through its ‘Lunas Pinas’ patient navigation program.

‘You do not have to die or you do not have to have a life-threatening disease to be able to have your problem addressed. Because eye care is not just about the person; it’s also the caregiver. The innovations are here to help address that,’ shared Dr. Ma. Teresa Dioko, Healthcare Ecosystems Chapter Lead of Roche (Philippines) Inc.

Medical leaders from PAO, VRSP, and Tzu Chi Foundation also underscored their frontline role in caring for patients and stressed the need for equitable and affordable access to treatments.

Vision Health as a National Priority

Citing findings from the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Vision Health Survey, Roche revealed that nine in 10 Filipino diabetics already report symptoms of vision loss, which is a stark reminder of the scale of the crisis and the urgency of coordinated interventions.

‘Our commitment is to share with health stakeholders and with everyone, especially also the media, the Asia Pacific Vision Health Survey. So that there is a sense of urgency that we put a stop to the neglect of vision health here in the Philippines,’ said Roche (Philippines) Inc. General Manager Dr. Diana Edralin.

‘Roche will continue to be a champion of people-centered eye health, not only as a pharmaceutical company, but as a health advocate committed to preserving sight and protecting the patient’s quality of life,’ she added.

Dr. Edralin also cited efforts with VRSP to build the country’s first multi-site retinal disease registry through the Roche data tool Clarum, alongside a regional real-world evidence study in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

The roundtable ended with a consensus: eye care must be recognized as an essential component of universal healthcare. Stakeholders pledged to take concrete steps in developing CPGs, strengthening patient pathways, and expanding treatment access.

Anytime Fitness Asia has achieved a historic milestone, celebrating the network’s growth to 500 clubs across the region. To mark the occasion, eight clubs across eight markets hosted synchronized grand openings on the same day, highlighting the scale and unity of the brand’s fast-growing network.

With Anytime Fitness Asia recently recognized as the Overall Winner – International Franchisor of the Year at the 2025 Franchising and Licensing Association (FLA) Singapore Awards, the 500th club milestone further underscores the brand’s leadership and credibility in the region.

‘This milestone is a powerful symbol of our growth and unity,’ said Luke Guanlao, Group CEO of Inspire Brands Asia (IBA). ‘With more than 5,600 clubs across 42 countries, Anytime Fitness is the world’s largest 24-hour fitness franchise – and our purpose, Train For Your Life, drives us to be more than a gym. Reaching 500 clubs in Asia is just the beginning, and we’re committed to expanding further into new markets while continuing to be a lifetime partner in health and wellness.’

Johannes Raadsma, President and Co-Founder of Inspire Brands Asia (IBA), added: ‘Every one of our 500 clubs tells a story of resilience, entrepreneurship, and community. This milestone highlights not only our growth, but also the trust of our members and the dedication of our staff, franchisees, and partners who make our network thrive and united across Asia.’

On 19 September, synchronized events took place at AF McKinley West in the Philippines, AF

Tampines in Singapore, AF Austin Green in Malaysia, AF Hang Hau in Hong Kong, AF Citimall

Cimanggis in Indonesia, AF Oasis Ratchapruek in Thailand, AF Taoyuan Yiwen in Taiwan, and AF Vincom Grand Park in Vietnam. The milestone celebrations were hosted across a mix of corporate-owned and independent franchisee clubs, reflecting the collective strength, entrepreneurship, and community spirit that drive Anytime Fitness’s growth across Asia.

The milestone was held at Anytime Fitness McKinley West, located in the heart of Taguig’s vibrant community in McKinley West community. Located near residential areas, offices, and commercial hubs, Anytime Fitness McKinley West makes it easy to prioritize your health and wellness without compromising your lifestyle. It offers 24/7 Access to accommodate you based on your schedule, Group Classes for a fun and engaging sessions to keep you energized and consistent. State of the art equipment in Cardio Equipements, free weights, functional training zones, and strength equipment.

Anytime Fitness continues to differentiate itself by combining global reach with local impact. With its 24-hour access model, integrated coaching ecosystem, and strong community ties, the brand has positioned itself as Asia’s most accessible and trusted fitness network.

About Inspire Brands Asia (IBA)

Inspire Brands Asia (IBA) is the multi-award-winning regional master franchisee of Anytime Fitness, overseeing a network 500 clubs across Southeast Asia, with more than 100 under corporate management. Operating in dynamic markets including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam, IBA commands the region’s largest fitness network, powered by 1,400+ employees across the organization.

About Anytime Fitness Philippines

Anytime Fitness is the largest, fastest-growing fitness brand in the world, averaging 300 new clubs per year while serving over 5 million members at more than 5,600 clubs in 42 countries and territories on all seven continents. Open 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, Anytime Fitness delivers personalised and affordable health and wellness training, coaching, nutrition, and recovery guidance for our members-in the club, in their homes, in their pockets, wherever they are and anytime they need it. All franchised clubs are individually owned and operated, and members have access to any Anytime Fitness club worldwide.

When two reputable funding institutions give a country a healthy assessment of its economy, then its economic team must be doing something good despite the headwinds.

The Philippines finds itself in an enviable position again-economic growth is steady and the inflation rate fully reined in.

Both the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) continue to believe that the Philippines is heading in the right economic direction.

A visiting IMF team had assessed that the Philippines achieved successful ‘disinflation’ and economic growth remained resilient despite ‘negative external spillovers.’

The inflation rate is a crucial barometer of growth. Higher prices, when not arrested, will curb consumption and ultimately constrict economic growth. Consumers with reduced purchasing power will naturally spend less. This, in turn, could lead to slower expansions in the manufacturing sector and lower employment opportunities.

The IMF, which periodically sends a team to the Philippines under Article IV Consultation to assess its economic performance, is obviously pleased with what the government of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has achieved so far.

The IMF expects inflation to average 1.6 percent in 2025 and remain around the mid-point of the target band set by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in 2026.

The IMF, though, slightly cut its 2025 growth forecast for the Philippines and noted that the BSP had room to further ease monetary policy given a favorable inflation outlook and elevated risks to growth.

The IMF now expects the Philippine economy to grow 5.4 percent in 2025, slower than its 5.5-percent estimate in July. It expects growth to accelerate to 5.7 percent in 2026.

Against the backdrop of external risks, including prolonged global trade policy uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and disruptive financial market corrections, the slightly lower forecast for the Philippine economy is not at all discouraging.

The Philippine economy, after all and as the IMF correctly observed, ‘holds significant potential with a sizable demographic dividend and abundant natural resources.’

The ADB, meanwhile, has more upbeat expectations. Robust domestic demand amid subdued inflation, according to the bank last week, will support Philippine economic growth this year and next.

The ADB, in its Asian Development Outlook (ADO) September 2025 report, saw the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) expanding by 5.6 percent this year and 5.7 percent in 2026, compared with the 5.7-percent growth last year.

The 2025 GDP projection was maintained from the ADB’s July ADO forecast, while the 2026 growth estimate was slightly lower than 5.8 percent in July.

The Philippines is expected to remain a bright spot in Southeast Asia, with the second highest GDP expansion in the region.

‘The Philippines’ growth outlook remains resilient amid a global environment of shifting trade and investment policies and heightened geopolitical uncertainties,’ says Andrew Jeffries, ADB country director for the Philippines.

Despite uncertainties, Jeffries sees strong domestic demand supporting growth, ‘with sustained investments and an accommodative monetary policy supporting the economy’s expansion.’

The ADB, like the IMF, expects the inflation to ease more this year than earlier projected, slowing to 1.8 percent before rising to 3.0 percent in 2026 to return to the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent.

Infrastructure again will be the key to a sustainable economic growth. The government aims to maintain infrastructure spending at 5 percent to 6 percent of the GDP over the medium term. This includes investments in big-ticket road, bridge, port, and railway projects.

As I mentioned last week in my column, the Accelerated and Reformed Right-of-Way (ARROW) Act would streamline the land acquisition process for government and public-private partnership projects.

The new law is a game changer that will help speed up infrastructure investments. It will benefit the government’s flagship projects, including the ADB-financed Malolos-Clark Railway Project and the South Commuter Railway Project, which will link Metro Manila to northern and southern provinces in the Luzon region.

The ARROW Act will also support the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge Project, which is expected to be one of the world’s longest bridges when completed.

The consumer outlook in the Philippines also remains optimistic for 2026. This perception is conducive for private consumption growth, aided by a steady inflow of remittances from Filipinos working overseas.

As we march toward the last quarter of the year, we have reasons to be optimistic again for 2026.

Two months prior to the imposition of the ban on rice imports, official government data showed that the average farmgate prices of unmilled rice fell drastically in a number of areas in the country. In a report it published on September 12, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) noted that the average farmgate price of dry palay fell by more than a third or 33.5 percent to P16.40 per kilogram in July, from last year’s P24.68 per kg. In August, the decline was slower at 27.8 percent but average farmgate price was still lower at P17.11 per kg compared to the previous year’s P23.71 per kg.

The average farmgate prices mean that planters in some areas are getting offers lower than the July and August levels, while some lucky ones were paid more for their crops. Industry sources, however, lamented that some planters sold their crop at a loss-P10 to P13 per kilo versus their production cost of P17 to P18 per kilo.

The speaker of House of Representatives claimed that quotations for unhusked rice in Isabela province fell to as low as P8 per kilo.

Following India’s decision to lift many of its restrictions on rice imports last year and the decision of Manila to cut tariffs, international prices went on a freefall this year and made it cheaper for local traders to bring in the staple from other countries. The government reduced tariffs, which were pegged at 35 percent for Asean countries and 50 percent for non-Asean countries, to 15 percent in July 2024. Rice output recovered in the first half of 2025, but the Philippines continued to buy the staple from other countries in huge quantities because of this policy.

Malacañang said in March that traders were lowballing farmers to explain the drop in rice farmgate prices. As a policy response, the government decided to ban rice imports initially for 60 days, beginning on September 1 or during the start of the rice harvest season. However, there are plans to extend this until the end of the year.

The goal is to encourage traders to purchase more local unhusked rice during the wet harvest season, when rice planters can sell more crops. This strategy is expected to prevent farmgate prices from declining, which could happen if imports continue to arrive during harvest. The measure may be extreme to some quarters, but with the 15 percent tariff on rice imports still in place, closing the country’s borders to foreign crops may be the only way to stop Filipino planters from incurring more losses.

The import ban is still in effect and its results will be known by the end of the year. The government must conduct a thorough assessment of the results of this policy after it is lifted to determine if farmers benefited from it and if retail prices remained stable during its effectivity. If it fails to achieve its objectives, then the President must heed the recommendation of the Philippine Competition Commission to scrutinize the rice value chain and find out where the discrepancies took place.