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BusinessMirror Editorial
Government urged to leverage import fees to boost PHL coffee industry
The Philippines has been a net importer of coffee since 1997, according to an industry roadmap prepared by the government. The country’s current output is simply not enough to keep up with increasing demand of households and cafes for coffee. Local farms could only supply 15 percent of the country’s annual requirement, while the rest is imported.
Empowering OFWs: The need for financial literacy initiatives
The recent announcement by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) regarding the substantial increase in personal remittances of overseas Filipino workers from January to November 2023 is a cause for celebration and reflection. Despite global uncertainties and economic challenges, our hardworking OFWs have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to their families and the economic development of our nation.
MMDA questions traffic study’s methodology
Metro Manila has often faced criticisms for its traffic congestion. Detractors use this as a deterrent to dissuade foreign tourists from visiting the country. While it is undeniable that Manila’s traffic can be overwhelming at times, it is crucial to acknowledge that traffic congestion is not unique to Metro Manila. Many other global cities face similar challenges.
WHO appeals for $1.5 billion to protect vulnerable people
The World Health Organization (WHO), the leading international body responsible for public health, on Monday launched an appeal for $1.5 billion to protect the health of the most vulnerable populations in 41 emergencies around the globe. The appeal covers the emergencies that demand the highest level of response from WHO this year, with the aim to reach over 87 million people. It is being issued in a context of complex emergencies cutting across crises of conflict, climate change and economic instability, which continue to fuel displacement, hunger, and inequality.
Awe-inspiring respect for non-interference
The People’s Republic of China, a country known for its deep concern for human rights and freedom of speech, has accused several nations of “interfering in China’s internal affairs” after world leaders sent messages to Taiwan’s president-elect Lai Ching-te following his victory on Saturday. The PRC has strongly declared that it does not meddle in other nations’ internal affairs. Thus, it expects the same respect for its own domestic matters, particularly when it comes to Taiwan.
Needed initiatives to fill PHL’s cold storage gap
Logistics is a popular sector in an archipelagic country like the Philippines. Many areas in the country would have to be accessed by boats or planes. Some areas would require a combination of transport options before visitors or residents can reach them.
After Covid, the world needs collective action
The Covid-19 pandemic brought many countries to their knees and tested the world’s resilience like never before. The health crisis triggered a global economic downturn of unprecedented magnitude when governments imposed strict lockdowns and travel restrictions to contain the virus, bringing entire industries to a standstill. Businesses—both large and small—faced closures, bankruptcies, and layoffs, leading to soaring unemployment rates.
Jo Koy’s A-game fueled a tough crowd’s disdain
The organizers of Golden Globes 2024 found themselves in a bit of a pickle this year. With their original host dropping out at the last minute, they desperately scrambled to find a replacement. And who was brave enough to step up to the plate? Filipino-American stand-up comic Jo Koy! By all standards, he is highly qualified for the job. He has released five stand-up specials on Comedy Central and Netflix, including his most recent Netflix special, “Live From The Los Angeles Forum.” And his “Easter Sunday” in 2022 was the first big studio movie with an all-Filipino cast.
Volatile environment for global rice prices
Almost a year into the conflict in Eastern Europe, which started when Russia attacked Ukraine, rice prices in the Philippines were relatively stable, based on figures released by the Department of Agriculture on January 5, 2023. In its regular price monitoring, figures from the agency showed that regular milled rice ranged from P34 per kilo to P40 per kilo in markets in the National Capital Region. More importantly, the cheapest rice variety was available in all NCR markets monitored by the DA.
When towns and cities are right to be selfish
Selfishness has long been regarded as a negative trait, condemned by ethical systems and societal norms. However, there exists an alternative perspective that challenges this general belief: Selfishness as a virtue. While it may seem counterintuitive, a paradigm shift in ethical perspectives among local leaders may be the needed spark to revolutionize the country’s rural economic landscape.
Unanswered power issues amid NGCP’s vanishing act
IN a stunning display of prowess, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has managed to achieve the impossible: A complete and utter disconnect with the consumers of Panay Island and Western Visayas. It’s a performance that left businesses and residents bewildered and powerless, both literally and metaphorically.
PHL’s global reputation under shades of grey
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an intergovernmental organization that sets international standards and promotes measures to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. It plays a crucial role in the global financial system by conducting mutual evaluations of its member countries to assess their compliance with the FATF recommendations.
Peace and order: Catalyst for investor confidence
IN a world marked by globalization and economic interdependence, nations must compete to attract foreign investment to fuel their economic growth. While numerous factors influence investment decisions, one crucial aspect that investors prioritize is the peace and order situation. Peace and stability form the bedrock upon which economic progress can thrive, providing an environment conducive to business operations, sustainable growth, and investor confidence.
PHL still at the mercy of global food traders
There seems to be no end in sight for the war in Eastern Europe, which started in February 2022 when Russian forces attacked Ukraine. The uncertainty caused by this conflict continues to rattle markets, although some governments have already made adjustments to shield their citizens from its fallout. Unfortunately, policy tweaks and interventions to ensure the food supply of certain nations, such as export restrictions, have exacerbated the difficulties that confronted countries dependent on imports, like the Philippines.
You can avoid the pitfalls of New Year’s resolutions
The dawning of a new year brings with it a sense of renewal and the opportunity for personal growth. Yes, 2024 gives us a chance to set new goals by making our New Year’s resolutions. However, it is no secret that most of us fail to follow through on our resolutions for a variety of reasons.