New year, new hope for Phl

Optimism is high for the Philippines this 2025 as the country continues to build on the economic gains of the past year and at the same time, finds itself at a critical juncture politically with the upcoming midterm elections.

- JOE ZALDARRIAGA

Global headwinds aside, the Philippines' outlook remains robust for 2025 with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) projecting a 6.2 percent economic growth this year, driven by broad-based domestic demand supported by lower inflation and interest rates.

Inflation, according to the ADB, is projected to further decline to 3.2 percent to strengthen consumer purchasing and economic momentum.

Likewise, around 90 percent of Filipinos also welcomed the New Year "with hope," based on the results of the latest national Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey. This collective optimism reflects a shared aspiration for a better Philippines, amplified by the spirit of renewal that New Year celebrations bring – an opportunity to refresh, restart and recharge.