Result: after slumping to below $100 a barrel, to $94, Brent oil is back to above $100, to $124 per barrel in spot price late Wednesday, for delivery in 10 to 30 days. Meanwhile, the Manila-based Asian Development Bank projects a Philippine economic growth of 4.4 percent in 2026, “slower growth than earlier expected due to rising global uncertainties, particularly from the Middle East conflict and downside risks.”ADB’s Asian Development Outlook April 2026 says Philippine growth rises to 5.5 percent in 2027. The government has rolled out targeted assistance programs, such as cash and fuel subsidies, to cushion the impact of the Middle East conflict on vulnerable sectors such as farmers, fisherfolk and public transport drivers. Downside risks to growth have increased, mainly from the Middle East conflict, which could further heighten inflationary pressures. The Middle East accounts for over 17 percent of total remittances in the Philippines, and a prolonged conflict could affect overseas Filipino workers and household income.

Source: Philippine Star April 10, 2026 16:37 UTC