PH manufacturing expands in 2024

PH closes 2024 with stronger manufacturing growth

Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas
GMA Integrated News 

02 January 2024

The Philippine manufacturing sector continued to expand in December to close the year with a rate last seen in April 2022 on the back of higher output and new orders, results of the latest survey conducted by S&P Global released on Thursday showed.

The headline S&P Global Philippines Manufacturing PMI stood at 54.3 in December, higher than the 53.8 in November. This matches the same reading recorded in April 2022, and the joint-strongest since November 2017.

“The Filipino manufacturing sector ended 2024 on a positive note, with further improvements in demand resulting in sharp and significant increases in new orders and output,” S&P Global Market Intelligence economist Maryam Baluch said.

Output and new order growth were the strongest in 32 months, supported by anecdotal evidence of robust underlying demand trends, product diversification, and new client acquisitions. There was also a renewed increase in demand from international markets as new export orders increased for the first time in five months.

“Firms also expanded their purchasing activity to meet production requirements. December highlighted a moderation in inflationary pressures, marking a shift from the spike observed in November. In fact, cost burdens and output charges rose at historically muted rates,” Baluch said.

While higher costs for materials and suppliers were mostly passed onto clients, the survey results showed that there was a renewed moderation in inflationary pressures after the peaks seen in November as cost burdens rose at a rate below historical average.

“While production efficiency allowed manufacturers to stay on top of tasks at hand, it also led to a slight drop in employment, thereby ending a three-month streak of job creation. However, this could be a temporary blip, especially if demand remains resilient as anticipated throughout 2025,” Baluch said.

Respondents reported a minor decrease to their hiring, as firms were able to keep on top of their workloads even with more new orders during the period with the backlog depletion rate the most pronounced in 13 months.

Official government data on manufacturing under the Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries (MISSI) is scheduled to be released on February 7, 2025.—AOL, GMA Integrated News

Filipino stars shine on global stage

2024’s winning moments Part 2: Filipino stars shine on global stage

Toff C.
ABS-CBN.com
Jan 02, 2025

As we continue the 2024 winning moments rundown, we celebrate a year that marked a new pinnacle for Filipino talents. From groundbreaking achievements in film, music, and theater to exceptional contributions in digital content, Filipino artists shone brightly on the global stage.

These milestones underscore the ever-expanding influence and undeniable excellence of Filipino creativity, proving once again that their artistry transcends borders and continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

1. Dolly de Leon headlining three international films 

Golden Globe nominee Dolly de Leon starred in three international films in 2024: the Sundance comedy-drama Between the Temples, the Sundance drama Ghostlight, and the Amazon Prime action-comedy Jackpot!

In October, Dolly also took the stage alongside Lea Salonga in the play Request sa Radyo.

"With loneliness being one of the most immediate problems society faces today, my hope is that people will understand mental health more and find compassion for those who suffer," Dolly remarked on starring in the play.

2. Sarah Geronimo making history with the Billboard Global Force Award

Popstar Royalty received the Global Force award at the Billboard Women in Music at the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles, California in March 2024. She's the first-ever homegrown Filipina to accept the award.  

"I humbly accept this award on behalf of every excellent Filipino artist back home and all over the world. For me, this recognition signifies courage and hope. Courage to accept and embrace oneself and the courage to break boundaries and rise above all the setbacks and challenges that every artist needs to face," she said in her acceptance speech.

She went on: "And the hope that one day, this meaningful moment will bridge the gap between the Philippines and other nations, collaborating, uniting as one to create change and positivity in the world through music."

In March 2024, Sarah also became the first-ever honoree of the Woman of the Year award at the Billboard Philippines Women in Music event in Manila.

3. Janine Gutierrez making her debut at Venice Film Festival

Janine Gutierrez made her debut at the Venice Film Festival as part of Lav Diaz's film Phantosmia.

"It is my dream to go to Venice and these types of film festivals. When I was there, there was a fan who flew from the US. TFC. To see so much effort, I feel the same effort," she stated.

On her experience walking the red carpet at the film festival, she remarked: "Surreal. That was the biggest red carpet I've ever walked. There were so many people waiting on the red carpet. Hollywood stars camped out. It was exciting to just walk with our team."

4. Marina Summers going on a world tour

Filipina drag sensation Marina Summers headlined a world tour in 2024, captivating audiences across Canada, the USA, and Europe. She also brought her performances to Southeast Asia, including stops in the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Taiwan, as well as to Australia and South America.

In addition to her tour, Marina represented the Philippines in the second season of RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK vs. the World following her success as a runner-up in Drag Race Philippines.

"From the Philippine Seas to the World ... I have crossed the oceans to be where I am now. And it has been one of the most life-changing things that has happened to me. I am forever grateful for this opportunity to share Marina and the beauty of my country to all of you," she said after taking part in the show.

5. Abi Marquez's big triumph at Webby Awards 

Filipino content creator Abigail Marquez aka "Lumpia Queen" won the 2024 People’s Voice Award for Food and Drink in Social at the prestigious Webby Awards in New York City.

Dubbed the "Oscars of the Internet," the Webbys, presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, recognize excellence in digital content.

Abi is the first Filipina born and raised in the Philippines to achieve this honor at the Webby Awards

"I am so grateful to have gone while representing the Philippines and every Filipino home cook out there," she said following her win. "I hope I made every single one of you proud! Here’s a quick throwback on what went on during The Webby Awards night!!❤️"

6. Liza Soberano making her Hollywood debut

Liza Soberano made her Hollywood debut in Lisa Frankenstein which premiered in February 2024 in the US.

Liza starred in the film alongside Kathryn Newton and Cole Sprouse. The actress played the role of Taffy.

"What a special night the Lisa Frankenstein premiere was! I’m so incredibly honored to be around amazing talent and even better human beings! I’m so proud of this wonderfully bonkers film we made that was born out of love for horror/comedy and a passion for storytelling," she remarked following the movie's premiere.

PH climbs 28 places in Gender Equality Index 2024/2025

Philippines soars to 54th spot in Gender Equality and Governance Index

BusinessWorld Online
January 2, 2025

The Philippines rose 28 places to 54th out of 158 countries in the 2024/2025 edition of the Gender Equality and Governance Index (GEGI), with an index score of 72.4. Made by public policy group Global Governance Forum, the index aims to achieve a comparative understanding of gender discrimination within five critical areas: governance, education, work, entrepreneurship, and violence.

Filipino celebrities' milestones in 2024

2024's winning moments: Filipino stars shine on global stage

Toff C.
ABS-CBN.com
Jan 01, 2025

The year 2024 marked remarkable milestones for Filipino celebrities as they made waves both locally and internationally.

These winning moments not only highlight individual triumphs but also showcase the growing influence of Filipino artistry worldwide.

1. Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richard making box office history

The two stars' recent film Hello, Love, Again made history in the box office after it surpassed the ₱1 billion in gross sales globally.

Released on November 13, the movie follows the story of Joy (Kathryn) and Ethan (Alden), this time in Canada.

We love you a billion times," Alden said as he expressed his gratitude to those who supported the film in different countries. "No words can say how grateful we are, maraming maraming salamat po."

Kathryn added: "Grabe, parte kayo nito. Thank you for making this happen. Thank you for making this possible. Congratulations to us."

2. BINI's multiple sold-out concerts

BINI experienced their breakthrough year in 2024 with three sold-out concerts at the New Frontier Theater for BINIverse from June 28 to 30, followed by the Grand BINIverse at the Big Dome on November 16, 18, and 19.

"3 days of the Grand Biniverse concert, success!! Thank you Lord for the gift of love ❤️❤️❤️ It wouldn’t have been a success if it weren’t for the love and tremendous effort that everyone invested in this," BINI Aiah said following the group's concert in the Big Dome. 

The Nation's girl group also went on a regional tour in the Philippines for the BINIverse concert series before bringing the show to Canada.

3. SB19 and BINI honored at Billboard Korea

SB19 and BINI received the Voice of Asia awards at the Billboard K Power 100 event in South Korea on August 27, 2024.

The two groups received the awards for their "groundbreaking contributions to Filipino music and their unwavering championing of P-pop on the global stage."

"This award belongs not just to us, but to the entire P-pop movement, OPM and of course to every Filipino that shares their creativity and passion across Asia and the world," SB19 remarked in their acceptance speech. 

"This award reminds us that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. ... Patuloy naming iaangat ang musikang Pilipino. Maraming-maraming salamat po," BINI remarked.

4. Kim Chiu's major victory at Seoul International Drama Awards

Kim Chiu received the Most Outstanding Asian Star (Philippines) trophy at the Seoul International Drama Awards in South Korea on September 25, 204.

"To Seoul Drama International Awards. Thank you for this recognition this is a dream come true for me to represent ABS-CBN and my country Philippines," Kim said during her acceptance speech.

Other stars who received the Outstanding Asia Stars Award include Byeon Woo-seok and Kim Hye-yoon from Korea, Win Metawin from Thailand, Siti Saleha from Malaysia, Desmond Tan from Singapore, and Ochi Rosdiana from Indonesia.

5. Janella Salvador teams up with Thai actor Win Metawin for cross-country film 'Under Parallel Skies'

More than a decade after Filipino actress Erich Gonzales and Thai actor Mario Maurer teamed up for Suddenly It's Magic, another cross-border collaboration has captivated audiences. Janella Salvador stars alongside Thai heartthrob Win Metawin in the international romance film Under Parallel Skies in 2024.

Under Parallel Skies had its world premiere at the 17th Asian Film Awards on March 11, 2024. The film was distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. After its released in 13 countries, the film premiered on Netflix worldwide on October 24, 2024, after its cinema run in 13 countries. 

"I was definitely excited to work on a cross-border production for the first time," Janella said, reflecting on her decision to join the project in an interview with Elle Singapore. "Story-wise, it is already very strong and stands on its own. I believe in this film so much."

PH economy on verge of growth in 2025 - Labor Secretary

Philippine economy on cusp of growth amid tech advancements, sustainability focus — Laguesma

BusinessWorld Online
January 1, 2025

THE PHILIPPINES is on the cusp of a significant economic growth in 2025, which will be driven mainly by technological advancements, as well as the heightened focus on sustainability and wellness, according to its labor chief.

PAIRS OF HIGH-QUALITY SHOES made in Marikina City are shown to members of the media during a tour of C Point Manufacturing’s shoe factory in Barangay Concepcion Uno on Aug. 7, 2019. — PHILIPPINE STAR / BOY SANTOS

“The Philippines is on the transition of a substantial economic expansion, fueled by technological breakthroughs, heightened environmental consciousness and a growing emphasis on healthcare and wellbeing,” Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma told BusinessWorld in a Viber message.

On this note, he said emerging sectors, such as the digital economy, green economy, blue economy, and care economy, are “projected to experience significant growth.”

Federation of Free Workers President Jose Sonny G. Matula likewise expects growth in tech-driven industries as the Philippines is rapidly becoming a global player in technology due to its skilled workforce and supportive business ecosystem.

“In-demand roles include software developers proficient in programming languages like Python, Java, and C#, and data scientists who extract actionable insights to guide business decisions,” he told BusinessWorld in a Viber chat.

As a way to cope with this emerging sector, workers must be equipped with advanced technology skills, he added.

“Proficiency in digital fluency, business and data storytelling, data visualization, cybersecurity, robotics, and telemedicine will be crucial,” he said.

He also said it is critical for workers to have the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies to catch up on the rapidly evolving job market.

The union leader added demand for healthcare workers would further rise this year as global health challenges underscored the need for more robust healthcare systems, increasing the need for professionals. 

“However, the sector faces hurdles such as brain drain, as skilled workers seek opportunities abroad,” he noted.

Moreover, Mr. Laguesma noted the transition to a more technology-driven economy poses challenges for certain industries.

Roles in administration, traditional security, manufacturing, and commerce are projected to decline due to automation and digitalization, he said.

Jobs requiring technical support, sales, and clerical work are particularly vulnerable, as they face the highest risk of displacement by automation.

“In fine, jobs that provide technical support, sales and clerical works stand the highest exposure to automation,” he said.

Mr. Matula said urged the government to strategically plan, invest in human capital, and commit to continuous learning and adaptability to capture opportunities in emerging industries. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana

Young PH Weightlifters brings home 25 medals

Young PH weightlifters capture 25 medals in Asian Championships

Story by Aric John Sy Cua
The Manila Times
25 December 2024

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine national weightlifting team ended its campaign at the 2024 Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships, taking home 25 medals, five of which were gold.

They also took home 10 silver and 10 bronze medals.

The Philippine national weightlifting team PILIPINAS WEIGHTLIFTING FB PAGE

Aldrin Colonia and Jhodie Peralta won three gold medals combined. Colonia won the country's first two gold medals in the men's 49 kilogram youth division in the snatch (84 kg) and the total lift (184 kg), while Peralta got her gold medals in the women's 55 kg youth division through the snatch (84 kg) and the total lift (184 kg).

Both of them each had a silver medal in their respective events, with Peralta at the clean and jerk and Colonia at the snatch, losing out the gold to fellow Filipino Eron Bores, who lifted at 97 kg, but did not finish the event.

Meanwhile, at the men's 55 kg youth division, Prince Keil Delos Santos captured three silver medals across all categories, lifting 110 kg in the snatch and 132 kg in the clean and jerk, with a total of 242 kg.

Delos Santos also clinched three bronze medals at the men's 55 kg youth division, lifting the same exact numbers he had in the youth division.

In the women's 40 kg youth division, Althea Bacaro won two silver and a bronze, lifting at 55 kg in the snatch to take silver and 73 kg in the clean and jerk for bronze, enough for a total lift of 128 kg to give her the silver medal.

Other medalists at the event were Rosalinda Faustino (2 bronze medals, women's 49 kg youth division), Alexsandra Ann Diaz (2 bronze medals, women's 45 kg youth division), Princess Jay Ann Diaz (bronze in snatch, women's 40 kg youth division), Rose Jean Ramos (silver in snatch, women's 45 kg junior division), and Angeline Colonia (1 bronze, 1 silver, women's 45 kg junior division).

The 2024 Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships took place from December 19-25 in Doha, Qatar.

The winning Filipino architectural design in airport industry

Modern PH sensibility gifted to the world

Story by Jovi Miroy
The Manila Times
24 December 2024

THE 2024 TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards-Asia hailed Clark International Airport (CRK) as the International Airport of the Year–Philippines last Nov. 26 in Singapore. The award is given for excellence in travel services and transformative travel experiences.

The Manila Times took this as an opportunity to sit down and speak with the architect, Royal Pineda, whose design instigates innovation in the airport's services.

Inspired by the beautiful mountains of Zambales, the roofs mimic the landscape; the terminal gateways evoke the sprawl and repetition of the peaks. The design is driven by nature and culture as the floor follows the patterns of lahar flowing down the Sacobia River as well as the lanterns of Pampanga.

The intention was to give a sense of ownership and pride to the locals who will maintain the airport. For Pineda, a government building must amplify the pride of the citizens, Pampangueños and the Filipino community. In hewing close to the Zambales countryside, the design was simultaneously Filipino and international.

"We wanted an idea that was happening globally," said Pineda. "It must be universal and relatable to many, a modern Filipino sensibility we can offer to the world."

This gift to the larger international community lay in how the design solved tropical architectural problems. He gave as an example the use of lahar plaster: "Since it is organic, even when it ages, a simple lahar plaster is always beautiful. It can be used in residences. It is at once Filipino and modern."

A core principle in his practice is keeping the narrative simple and legible. Pineda believes design can change the country exponentially when it becomes basic, especially in government infrastructures. Design as dreaming for the many is one reason Pineda strives to create public spaces like airports and stadiums.

For him it is a failure in imagination if a government-funded building simply copies Western or classical architecture without providing solutions rooted in our geography and climate, and does not make sense to the majority of Filipinos.

Working with government

Something to look forward to is how the Clark International Airport will respond to the fact that going abroad is a family and barangay affair for Filipinos. He revealed that a village of wishers and greeters area would be built in the next phase: "It pains me to see the people behind the grills in NAIA 1. That shed is not a decent venue to wait for a balikbayan."

Instead, he envisions a park with appropriate dining spaces catering to a diverse clientele. For example, travelers may still eat in the "jeepneys," but at least they can wish their friends goodbye or meet them in a landscaped garden. Soon through this area, travelers will alight from the train that connects the airport to Metro Manila.

Pineda believes that modern Filipino design is more than using the functional form of a hangar or adopting indigenous forms like the "bahay kubo" or "bahay na bato." The triangular and pitched roofs, which make water run off faster, address the profuse rains in the tropics. "We needed to address the 250-kilometer speed of wind, the earthquakes, the heat."

One important design consideration is the notoriety of government spaces for not being well-maintained. Countering this perception, the airport exhibits open ceilings for easy detection and mending of leaks.

"Airport technology is fast moving. Having an open ceiling gives you more room to upgrade," said Pineda.

Rather than being daunted by the challenges, Pineda is energized to work with the government. He leads a growing movement that holds that public and civic spaces need not be aesthetically challenged.

Pineda said that the government must adopt what he calls "practical luxury," which does not intend to build expensive spaces only for the rich. By "luxury," he means a better way of living through design. If properly conceived, public spaces will address people's problems at less cost.

He wants to build not only smart and sustainable cities but also modern Filipino ones, which will boast iconic buildings and structures that transform and make lives better. The Clark International Airport is a herald of things to come.