‘Politics, trade woes weigh down growth’Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said geopolitical tensions were among the biggest factors weighing on the economy this year, even as stronger anti-corruption measures have yet to be realized to rebuild investor confidence. Ricafort added that political noise, weather disruptions and earthquakes have been the major catalysts this year, including US President Donald Trump’s higher tariffs, trade wars and protectionist measures. Without these losses, former finance secretary Ralph Recto said the economy could have expanded by as much as six percent. “A budget reenactment is like hitting pause when the economy needs play; it delays projects, slows growth and risks fiscal credibility,” he said. With the expiration of the 2025 General Appropriations Act by Dec. 31, the current budget will be automatically reenacted.

Source: Philippine Star December 29, 2025 16:42 UTC