MBC sees better 2026 for business

The influential Makati Business Club (MBC) expects 2026 to be a better year for businesses, even as the government continues to struggle to address the corruption scandal in public infrastructure.

- BY DEXTER BARRO II

LOCAL BOURSE KICKS OFF 2026 WITH STRONG GAINS -- A strong start for the local bourse as the Philippine Stock Exchange index climbs 1.4 percent to 6,135.06 on the first trading day of 2026. The market's positive performance, fueled by a P4.36 billion turnover, signals a potential turnaround for investor confidence as the exchange prioritizes liquidity and technological upgrades for the year ahead. In photo (from left): PSE Market Operations Division Head Marvin M. Refuerzo, PSE Finance Division OIC Eliza S. Rodriguez, PSE General Counsel Veronica V. Del Rosario, PSE COO Roel A. Refran, PSE President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon, PSE Issuer Regulation Division Head Marigel M. Baniqued-Garcia, PSE Technology Division Head Philip A. Driz, Securities Clearing Corporation of the Philippines COO Renee D. Rubio, and PSE Capital Markets Development Division Head Mark Frederick V. Visda.

Despite the ongoing corruption mess, MBC Executive Director Rafael Ongpin said last year's macroeconomic indicators suggest potential upside for economic growth this year.