Third-quarter GDP growth disappointed at 4.0% YoY, dragged down by weak investment and softer government spending, while exports provided temporary support. We downgrade our 2025 growth forecast to 4.7% (from 5.2%) as sentiment weakens and tariff headwinds loom, reinforcing our call for a 25bp central bank rate cut in December
In a dovish turn, the Philippines’ central Bank, the BSP, has cut rates by 25bp to 4.75%, citing softening growth and subdued inflation. Infrastructure spending concerns and corruption scandals add downside risks to our 2026 GDP outlook. The chances of a final 25bp rate cut in December have increased meaningfully
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) lowered its policy rate by 25bp to 5.00%, signalling a neutral stance amid stable inflation and slowing – but resilient – growth. While the easing cycle is nearing its end, one final rate cut this year remains likely, given our view of weaker GDP growth in the second half of the year
