Retail News CRM

Tag: manila

  • Pagcor Fines Gambling Firm P1 Million over Ivana Alawi iPhone Promotion

    Pagcor Fines Gambling Firm P1 Million over Ivana Alawi iPhone Promotion

    Philippine gaming regulator Pagcor fined an online gambling operator 1 million pesos ($17,700) for running an unapproved 100-unit iPhone giveaway with celebrity influencer Ivana Alawi.

    The social media promotion involved 4.28 million pesos worth of iPhone 17 Pro Max handsets distributed across Alawi’s digital channels in July without regulatory clearance. Prospective winners had to follow her affiliated gaming group and leave comments on promotional posts to enter the draw.

    Unauthorised Promotions Draw Scrutiny

    Pagcor chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco disclosed the financial penalty during a 2027 House of Representatives budget hearing in Manila. Lawmakers raised concerns after Kamanggagawa party-list Representative Elijah Fernando questioned the expanding marketing ties between digital influencers and gambling operators.

    Alawi maintains an official brand ambassadorship with online operator Casino Plus. Tengco confirmed the fine was accompanied by an explicit warning that repeat infractions would trigger license suspensions and outright cancellations.

    Enforcement Across Digital Platforms

    Regulators estimate that illegal operators make up roughly 50 per cent of the country’s online gaming ecosystem, operating beyond state oversight and consumer protection rules. Pagcor works alongside the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the National Telecommunications Commission, and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center to pursue cases against unlicensed platforms and their celebrity endorsers.

    For consumer brands and digital marketing agencies across Southeast Asia, the action shows tighter oversight of influencer-led giveaways and promotional sweepstakes. Regulators in Manila now require promotional campaigns tied to licensed gaming entities to secure prior clearances from both Pagcor and the Ad Standards Council.

    Several content creators have cancelled promotional contracts with unlicensed gambling entities following the initial enforcement drive. State agencies are preparing further takedown requests and legal filings against operators that continue running unregistered social promotions.

  • Philippine Fuel Retailers Raise Diesel by P2.31 per Liter

    Philippine Fuel Retailers Raise Diesel by P2.31 per Liter

    Philippine fuel retailers will raise pump prices on August 25, adding P2.31 per liter to diesel and P1.08 per liter to gasoline.

    The adjustment extends a second consecutive week of increases across Metro Manila and provincial networks, following a sharp rise on August 18 when diesel jumped P3.84 and gasoline gained P2.49. Kerosene will also climb by P0.95 per liter for the week of August 25 to 31, according to Department of Energy pricing data.

    What Drives the Regional Surge

    Dubai crude climbed roughly $8.90 per barrel during trading between August 10 and 14, driving refined product benchmarks higher across Asia. International diesel prices climbed $11.40 per barrel over the same period, while international gasoline rose $6.50 per barrel.

    Shipping constraints through the Strait of Hormuz contributed to the tighter supply outlook. Tanker transits through the passage dropped from 17 vessels on August 10 to 16 on August 11, reflecting persistent friction between Iranian and US-Israeli forces.

    Transport Costs and Supply Chains

    Rising pump prices squeeze operating margins for regional delivery fleets and retail logistics networks across the archipelago. The Philippines imports almost all of its fuel requirements, making freight and retail transport immediately sensitive to movements in global oil benchmarks and foreign exchange rates.

    Current retail levels sit well above baseline figures recorded in February. Prior to the escalation in Middle East maritime disputes, common retail prices in Metro Manila stood at P55.00 per liter for diesel and P56.00 per liter for RON95 gasoline.

    Russia also maintained its export ban on diesel during the August trading cycle, limiting replacement cargoes for Asian buyers and keeping regional diesel prices firm.

    Energy authorities will monitor crude throughput and tanker traffic through the Persian Gulf during the next trading window to assess adjustments for the first week of September.

  • SM Retail’s First-Half Profit Rises Amid Strong Consumer Demand and Store Expansion

    SM Retail’s First-Half Profit Rises Amid Strong Consumer Demand and Store Expansion

    SM Retail achieved a 5% rise in net income during the first half of 2026, reaching US$143.8 million (PHP8.9 billion). The Philippine retail giant attributed this performance to sustained consumer demand for daily necessities and the ongoing expansion of its physical store footprint.

    Operating income saw an even stronger increase, climbing 12% to US$226.2 million (PHP14.0 billion). This indicates the company’s effective management of operational costs, even in a period of higher inflation. SM Investments Corporation President and CEO, Frederic DyBuncio, highlighted the resilience of the Filipino consumer despite recent economic challenges, noting the robust performance of their consumer-led businesses and the contributions from a diversified portfolio.

    Diverse Growth Across Segments

    The company’s food retail sector demonstrated consistent sales growth across its supermarket and minimart chains. Specialty retail also saw higher sales, particularly in the Home, Other Fashion, and Kids categories. The Home category’s growth was fueled by continued demand for alternative power sources, while the Other Fashion segment was boosted by brands like Kultura and Crocs. The Kids category benefited from increased spending on toys, pet supplies, and stationery.

    SM Retail’s strong showing contributed significantly to SM Investments’ overall consolidated net income, which reached US$741.7 million (PHP45.9 billion) for the first half, an 8% increase from the previous year. Retail accounted for 15% of SM Investments’ net income, following banking (47%) and property (27%). The group’s mall business also reported an 8% revenue increase to US$675.5 million (PHP41.8 billion), a result of higher occupancy rates, stronger tenant sales, and improved operational efficiency.

    Strategic Outlook for Continued Expansion

    Looking ahead, SM Investments CEO Frederic DyBuncio expressed optimism for the second half of the year, while acknowledging potential macroeconomic uncertainties. He stressed that the company’s diversified portfolio, prudent balance sheet, and disciplined approach to capital allocation position it well to continue investing in the Philippines. This strategy aims to create long-term value for customers, communities, and shareholders.

    The emphasis on physical store expansion and diversified retail formats aligns with broader trends in Southeast Asia, where companies often combine digital strategies with a strong brick-and-mortar presence to capture varying consumer preferences and reach underserved areas. Retailers across the region are increasingly focusing on everyday essentials and adapting their offerings to meet shifting consumer priorities, especially after periods of economic fluctuation.

  • Digital Payments Now Comprise over 64% of Philippines Retail Transactions

    Digital Payments Now Comprise over 64% of Philippines Retail Transactions

    Digital payment methods have significantly surpassed traditional cash transactions in the Philippines, now representing 64.7 percent of all retail transactions by volume in 2025. This figure is a notable increase from 57.4 percent in the previous year, demonstrating a rapid adoption of electronic payment channels across the archipelago.

    The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported that this growth has exceeded its target of 50 to 54 percent. The central bank credits its efforts towards interoperability, ensuring that a broad range of businesses and service providers operate within a unified payment system. This integration enhances the value proposition for all participants, including consumers, businesses, banks, and e-wallets, by expanding the network’s reach and utility.

    Accelerated Digital Shift in Retail

    The rise of digital payments in the Philippines has been dramatic, climbing from just 20.1 percent of retail transactions in 2020. The share grew to 30.3 percent in 2021, 42.1 percent in 2022, and 52.8 percent in 2023, before reaching the current level. This sustained momentum underscores a fundamental change in consumer behavior and retail operations across the country.

    Key drivers behind this acceleration include a 69.4 percent increase in digital payment accounts and a 36.3 percent expansion in the number of merchant locations accepting digital payments. QR Ph transactions, the national QR code standard, surpassed both debit and credit card transactions for the first time in 2025. A total of 2.47 billion QR Ph transactions, valued at P1.16 trillion, were processed during the year, reflecting a growing preference for interoperable, account-based payments among Filipinos. This wider adoption generates network externalities, where the convenience and value of electronic payment channels increase as more entities join the ecosystem.

    Broader Financial Inclusion and Future Outlook

    Beyond retail transactions, the push for digital payments aligns with the BSP’s broader goal of deepening financial inclusion. The number of basic deposit accounts reached 27.9 million as of March, up from 27.6 million at the end of 2025, with 177 banks now offering these accessible accounts. The central bank has also welcomed initiatives by several banks to reduce or waive interbank digital transaction fees, anticipating that lower costs will make electronic fund transfers more affordable and accessible for households and small businesses.

    For retailers and consumer brands operating in the Philippines, this trend necessitates continued investment in digital payment infrastructure and smooth integration of various e-wallet and QR code solutions. The rapid adoption seen in the Philippines mirrors similar patterns across Southeast Asia, where countries like Indonesia and Vietnam are also experiencing significant shifts towards cashless economies. This transformation offers opportunities for businesses to streamline operations, enhance customer experience, and reach a wider, digitally-savvy consumer base.

  • Philippines Under Pressure to Close Vape Tax Loophole Hurting Retailers, Boosting Illicit Trade

    Philippines Under Pressure to Close Vape Tax Loophole Hurting Retailers, Boosting Illicit Trade

    Consumer advocacy groups in the Philippines are pressing Congress to revise the nation’s vape excise tax system, asserting that its current design encourages illicit trade. They contend that the significant tax disparity between nicotine salt and freebase nicotine products creates opportunities for misdeclaration, resulting in substantial revenue losses for the government and unfair competition for legitimate retailers.

    Under the existing tax framework, a 10-milliliter nicotine salt vape product incurs a tax of P602, while an equivalent freebase product is taxed at P69.46. This P532.54 difference, where nicotine salt products are taxed almost nine times higher, provides a strong incentive for operators to misdeclare their goods. This issue has been brought to the attention of the House Committee on Ways and Means, which is reviewing several bills aimed at amending excise taxes on tobacco and vapor products.

    Tax Disparity Fuels Illicit Market

    Representative Miro Quimbo, chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, has noted a concerning disconnect between rising vape consumption and declining tax collections, pointing to a growing illicit market. Orlando Oxales, convenor of CitizenWatch Philippines, stated that the problem stems not just from weak enforcement but from a tax system vulnerable to manipulation. Products that appear and are used similarly but are taxed differently based on characteristics difficult for regulators to verify on-site become prime targets for misdeclaration, transforming it into a business opportunity for unscrupulous players.

    Several legislative proposals before the committee suggest replacing the current two-tier system with a single excise tax rate for all vapor products, irrespective of their nicotine formulation. These bills highlight the risks of mislabeling and misdeclaration inherent in the existing framework. Marc Gamboa, convenor of Progreso Para sa Bayan, emphasised that simpler regulations would allow enforcement agencies to concentrate their resources more effectively on combating actual tax evasion. He noted that the Philippines’ specific tax distinction between nicotine salt and freebase formulations is unusual internationally, adding complexity and potential loopholes.

    Unified Rate Proposed For Fairer Trade

    Support for a unified vape tax rate has also come from key government agencies, including the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Customs, and the Department of Trade and Industry. These bodies cite enforcement difficulties and potential revenue leakage as major concerns under the current setup. Oxales stressed that tax systems should aid enforcement, not create avenues for illicit operations, arguing that regulatory complexity makes abuse easier.

    While advocating for simplification, the groups acknowledge that different product categories may warrant varying tax treatments. Their primary goal is for Congress to establish a system that is easy to administer, resistant to manipulation, and aligns with broader fiscal and regulatory goals. A streamlined tax regime would not only help stem the flow of illicit products but also create a more level playing field for legitimate retailers and brands operating within the Philippine vape market. Other Southeast Asian nations are also grappling with effective taxation of novel products like vapes, with varying approaches to product classification and excise duties often impacting market dynamics and the prevalence of illicit trade.

  • Filipinos Tighten Belts as Financial Pressures Mount, Study Finds

    Filipinos Tighten Belts as Financial Pressures Mount, Study Finds

    Filipino households are exercising greater caution in their spending habits, as global and political instability intensifies pressure on family finances. This trend is leading consumers to prioritize cheaper products and purchase smaller quantities, according to the Shopperscope 2026 study by Worldpanel by Numerator.

    The study indicates that Filipinos anticipate a decline in their financial and socioeconomic conditions over the next year. This marks a reversal from 2025, when there were indications of improvement. Many households are now concerned about simply covering daily expenses.

    Shifting Consumer Sentiment And Spending

    Laurice Obana, Worldpanel’s shopper insights director, noted that Filipinos are reverting to a state of financial constraint after a brief period of improvement. This pressure is widely felt across various financial segments: those who are comfortable may see their buffers shrink, managing households could face shortfalls, and struggling families may fall deeper into debt. This increased caution is already evident in consumer spending, with the local fast-moving consumer goods sector showing no growth from March to May compared to the previous year.

    To manage their budgets, consumers are actively looking for promotions and discounts, opting for more economical items, and reducing the size of their purchases. Shopping behaviors are also adapting across different retail channels. Discounters are seeing increased sales of frozen meats and non-sweet snacks, while online platforms are key for baby diaper purchases. Convenience stores, however, experienced double-digit growth in sales of snacks, ice cream, and bread.

    Retailers Must Adapt To New Demands

    For retailers, mere proximity is no longer sufficient to retain customers. Shoppers are now carefully evaluating a store’s product range and the value it offers. This shift necessitates a deeper understanding of how and why Filipino consumers make their purchasing decisions for essential goods.

    Retailers across Southeast Asia frequently encounter similar shifts in consumer sentiment during periods of economic uncertainty. Tracking these changes in purchasing priorities and channel preferences is vital for brands and operators in markets like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia, which often show parallel trends in consumer resilience and adaptability. Understanding these local nuances allows for more targeted strategies and product offerings.

  • Prolonged Rains Slow Philippine Retail, Construction, and Logistics Sector

    Prolonged Rains Slow Philippine Retail, Construction, and Logistics Sector

    Extended monsoon rains are anticipated to negatively affect the third-quarter operations of consumer-facing companies and the construction sector in the Philippines. Logistics and mining firms may also experience higher costs and delays due to the persistent wet weather.

    Toby Allan C. Arce, head of sales trading at Globalinks Securities and Stocks, Inc., noted that the prolonged monsoon is likely to exert a moderate but discernible drag on corporate activity during the third quarter. The severity of the impact will depend on how long the challenging weather conditions last and if they cause significant damage to infrastructure or supply chains.

    Recent heavy rainfall and widespread flooding have disrupted transportation in Metro Manila and Luzon, leading to road closures and suspensions of work and classes.

    Retailers Face Reduced Foot Traffic

    Retailers, mall operators, and restaurants are likely to see a decrease in customer traffic as heavy rains discourage travel and discretionary spending. Companies like SM Prime Holdings, Inc., Robinsons Land Corp., Ayala Land, Inc., SM Investments Corp., Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc., and Puregold Price Club, Inc. Are among those that could experience softer physical sales.

    Large destination malls and retailers selling non-essential goods are more susceptible to consumers postponing visits. Supermarkets and essential retailers, however, tend to be more resilient as purchases are necessities and consumers can adjust their shopping times rather than cancel them entirely.

    John Tristan D. Reyes, President of BDO Securities Corp., confirmed that retailers could face weaker foot traffic and sales. Transportation issues could also disrupt store operations. Philippine Seven Corp. (PSC) reported that same-store sales at some 7-Eleven branches dropped by up to 20% on particularly rainy days recently, though overall sales momentum for July remained strong, partly thanks to the 7-Eleven Day promotion. The geographic diversity of 7-Eleven stores helped cushion the impact, with reduced traffic in some areas offset by activity in residential locations.

    Restaurants might see fewer dine-in customers, although delivery and takeout services could offer some mitigation. Food manufacturers are less exposed in the short term, as consumers continue to buy staple products. However, prolonged heavy rainfall could affect agricultural output, potentially leading to higher raw material costs and impacting food manufacturers and restaurant operators.

    Construction And Logistics Suffer Delays

    The construction and property development sectors are facing more direct operational challenges. Persistent rainfall reduces the number of workable days, which can delay project completion and property turnover. Outdoor activities like excavation and concrete work are particularly affected, and flooding can hinder worker access and material deliveries.

    Companies such as Ayala Land, SM Prime, Megaworld Corp., Filinvest Land, Inc., and Vista Land & Lifescapes, Inc. Could experience project delays. While this might not result in permanent revenue loss, it could shift revenue recognition to later periods. Infrastructure contractors and construction material suppliers face similar timing risks, with fewer workable days impacting project progress and third-quarter billings. Extended delays could strain companies that still incur fixed costs despite slower construction activity. In the long run, severe weather might also create demand for repairs, drainage, and flood-control projects.

    Logistics companies are also seeing increased operating expenses. Flooding and traffic congestion prolong delivery times and boost fuel consumption. Disruptions at ports and airports can also temporarily delay the movement of goods. For retailers and consumers across Asia, such weather-related disruptions highlight the critical need for resilient supply chains and diversified retail strategies to mitigate the impacts of increasingly unpredictable climate patterns.

  • Chip Boom Pushes Vietnam, Philippines Towards High-Income Status

    Chip Boom Pushes Vietnam, Philippines Towards High-Income Status

    Economic development in Southeast Asia is being significantly reshaped by the growth of the semiconductor industry. This expansion is now positioning both Vietnam and the Philippines to potentially achieve ‘high-income’ country status, a classification currently held only by Singapore and Brunei among the 11 ASEAN members.

    Semiconductors Drive Economic Ascent

    The semiconductor sector is increasingly viewed as a critical pathway for these nations to overcome the ‘middle-income trap,’ a challenge where countries struggle to transition from industrial economies to knowledge-based, high-value ones. This strategic focus on advanced manufacturing is attracting substantial foreign investment and fostering technological advancements.

    For retailers and consumer brands operating in these markets, an upgrade to high-income status would signal a significant increase in purchasing power and a more sophisticated consumer base. This could lead to shifts in demand for premium products, advanced electronics, and a wider array of services, prompting businesses to adapt their strategies for product sourcing, pricing, and distribution.

    Implications for Retail and Consumer Markets

    The economic growth spurred by the chip industry is expected to boost average incomes, translating into greater disposable wealth for consumers in both Vietnam and the Philippines. This change will likely lead to an expansion of the domestic consumer market, making these countries even more attractive for international brands and investors looking for new growth opportunities.

    RetailNews Asia has been closely monitoring the strategic investments in the tech and manufacturing sectors across Southeast Asia, noting how such shifts often precede significant changes in consumer spending patterns and retail infrastructure development. The potential for Vietnam and the Philippines to join the ranks of high-income nations underlines a broader trend of economic diversification and upward mobility within the ASEAN bloc, promising a dynamic future for the region’s retail and consumer landscape.

  • Court Overturns Permit Revocation for Villar’s SIPCOR Power Firm

    Court Overturns Permit Revocation for Villar’s SIPCOR Power Firm

    The Philippine Court of Appeals has reversed the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) 2025 decision that revoked the operating permits of S.I. Power Corporation (SIPCOR). The court found that the ERC denied SIPCOR procedural due process when it ordered the power generator to halt its operations on Siquijor island.

    However, the appellate court’s July 24 ruling does not absolve SIPCOR of responsibility for the operational failures that caused Siquijor’s power crisis. It also does not automatically authorize the company to resume operations. The court stated that while the power situation in Siquijor required swift action, due process cannot be sacrificed for expediency.

    Procedural Flaws Cited

    The Court of Appeals found that the ERC used a fact-finding investigation to revoke SIPCOR’s operating authorities without formally notifying the company that its permits were at risk. The court noted that the ERC never issued the required show-cause order, which should have specified the alleged violations, their legal basis, and potential penalties.

    The ERC’s proceedings, which included a public hearing in July 2025 following prolonged outages in Siquijor that disrupted businesses and tourism, were consistently framed as fact-finding. The court also highlighted that the ERC relied on documents submitted after the July hearing, such as a letter from the energy secretary and an audit report, without giving SIPCOR an opportunity to contest them.

    The appellate court questioned the implementation of the shutdown. The ERC had already issued provisional operating authorities to a replacement generator before its decision against SIPCOR was promulgated. SIPCOR was then ordered to cease operations on August 29, 2025, just hours after being served the decision, despite ERC rules typically allowing 15 days before a decision becomes final.

    Uncertainty For SIPCOR’s Future Operations

    The Court of Appeals decision essentially voids the ERC’s permit revocation, but it does not guarantee SIPCOR’s immediate return to Siquijor’s power grid. The ERC may still pursue further legal action, including seeking reconsideration from the appellate court or elevating the case to the Supreme Court.

    SIPCOR itself acknowledged this uncertainty in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) by Premiere Island Power REIT (PREIT). PREIT, which owns and leases assets to SIPCOR, stated that SIPCOR is awaiting further developments before attempting to resume operations. Trading in PREIT shares was subsequently halted following the disclosure. SIPCOR is wholly owned by Prime Asset Ventures Inc., the infrastructure arm of the Villar family, and was a significant source of rental income for PREIT before its operations were suspended.

  • Manila’s Record-Breaking 12% Minimum Wage Boost Benefits Over a Million Workers

    Manila’s Record-Breaking 12% Minimum Wage Boost Benefits Over a Million Workers

    The Philippine government has sanctioned an unprecedented 12% increase in the daily minimum wage for Metro Manila, providing an additional 85 pesos (US$1.4) in two separate instalments beginning later this month. This decision is set to impact over 1.1 million minimum wage workers in Metro Manila with the largest single wage adjustment ever made in the capital region.

    Increased Wages and Phased Approach

    The wage hike will be implemented in two parts, with an initial 60 pesos increase on July 19, and a follow-up rise of 25 pesos on January 20, 2027. Once both increases have been fully enacted, non-agriculture workers will earn a daily minimum wage of 780 pesos (US$12.73). The hike also extends to other sectors, with workers in agriculture, service and retail establishments employing 15 or fewer staff, and manufacturing companies with fewer than 10 workers experiencing a 13% increase to their daily minimum wage, reaching 743 pesos.

    The adjustment comes at a time when the price of fuel and basic goods in the Philippines have surged since March, due to the conflict between the U.S. and Iran. This has consequently escalated inflation and diminished consumer purchasing power.

    Inflation in the Southeast Asian nation decreased to 6.8% in May from a three-year peak of 7.2% in April, though it still considerably surpasses the central bank’s maximum target of 4%.

    Metro Manila: Highest Minimum Wage in the Country

    Metro Manila, which is composed of 16 cities, currently holds the record for the country’s highest legislated daily minimum wage. According to research, the living wage for an average family of five in the capital region is 1,289 pesos.

    John Paolo Rivera, a senior research associate at the government-operated Philippine Institute for Development Studies, has expressed that the wage increase will provide “meaningful relief” to workers by “boosting purchasing power in a high-inflation environment and facilitating household consumption.” However, he also cautioned that it could elevate costs for small and medium-sized businesses, which may respond by increasing prices or slowing recruitment.

    “The overall effect will hinge on the adaptability of firms and whether productivity improvements accompany higher wages,” he stated. The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines, however, has criticized the two-part implementation and characterized the increase as “grossly inadequate considering the erosion of workers’ purchasing power.”

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new minimum wage for Metro Manila?
    The new minimum wage for non-agriculture workers in Metro Manila will be 780 pesos (US$12.73) once both increases have been fully implemented.

    When will the wage increase take effect?
    The wage increase will be implemented in two stages, with the first increase of 60 pesos starting on July 19, and the second increase of 25 pesos on January 20, 2027.

    What are the potential impacts of this wage increase?
    While the wage hike is expected to provide “meaningful relief” to workers by boosting purchasing power in a high-inflation environment, it may also raise costs for small and medium-sized enterprises, potentially leading to higher prices or slower hiring.

  • Riding the Retail Wave: SM Investments Sees Profit Surge Despite Weather Challenges

    Riding the Retail Wave: SM Investments Sees Profit Surge Despite Weather Challenges

    SM Investments, a conglomerate with operations in retail, banking, and property, experienced solid retail sales during the first three quarters of the year. These robust sales contributed to a consolidated net income of US$1.09 billion, a 6% rise compared to the same period in the previous year.

    The Impact of Weather Disruptions

    Despite significant weather disturbances in the Philippines, the company maintained steady performance. Frederic DyBuncio, President, and CEO of SM Investments remarked on the resilience of the company. He said, “In the face of adversities such as severe weather and flooding, our businesses have demonstrated sustained financial performance.”

    Income Breakdown

    Banking was the predominant contributor to SM Investments’ net income, accounting for 50% of the total. This was followed by property at 28%, retail at 15%, and portfolio investments at 7%.

    SM Retail’s Performance

    SM Retail disclosed a net income of $206.78 million, marginally lower than the $216.95 million recorded last year. Despite this slight dip, revenues grew by 5% to reach $5.39 billion. As a result, consolidated revenues climbed 4% to $8.17 billion.

    Consumer Behavior Shifts

    DyBuncio highlighted changes in consumer expenditure patterns as a factor impacting quarter-to-quarter comparisons. He explained that the earlier start of the school year in June shifted some expenditures from the third quarter to the second. Despite this shift, there was growth in niche retail spending, particularly in health and beauty, fashion, and kids categories. Essential spending also continued to bolster growth in food retail.

    Category Performance

    In terms of categories, department stores recorded a 3% revenue growth in fashion and children’s items. Food retail saw a 7% surge, largely attributable to store expansions. Specialty retail grew by 4%, driven mainly by increased demand in children’s and home categories.

    DyBuncio expressed confidence in the company’s outlook despite external challenges, declaring, “While external factors may impact the overall economic growth, we remain positive as we head into the fourth quarter.”

    Questions & Answers

    What was the significant factor contributing to SM Investments’ net income?
    Banking was the main contributor, accounting for 50% of the total net income.

    What consumer behavior change affected SM Investments’ quarterly comparison?
    The shift in school opening from the third to the second quarter caused some changes in consumer spending patterns.

    Which categories demonstrated notable growth in SM Investments’ retail sector?
    There was notable growth in specialty retail spending, particularly in health and beauty, fashion, and kids categories, as well as in food retail due to store expansions.

  • Revival on the Horizon: Metro Manila Retail Vacancy Rate Expected to Bounce Back to Pre-Pandemic Figures

    Revival on the Horizon: Metro Manila Retail Vacancy Rate Expected to Bounce Back to Pre-Pandemic Figures

    The retail vacancy rate in Metro Manila is projected to return to pre-pandemic levels by 2022, according to a recent study by Colliers Philippines. The rate of empty retail spaces in Metro Manila eased to 11.4% as of September 30, 2021. By the close of next year, forecasts indicate a reduction to 9.5%, almost matching the 9.3% recorded in the third quarter of 2019.

    Long-Term Forecasts

    The report also offers long-term projections, with a predicted rate of 8.2% by the end of 2027. This figure is notably lower than the pre-pandemic benchmarks, signaling a positive recovery trend for the retail sector in the region.

    The study attributes the anticipated improvement to two main factors. The first is the continuous entry of international retail brands into the Filipino market. The second is the rapid expansion of existing brands.

    The Role of Foreign Brands

    According to Joey Bondoc, Research Director at Colliers, foreign brands play a crucial role in this trend. He noted that many of these brands have previously exited the market but are now making a significant comeback.

    Bondoc further highlighted the attractive refurbishment strategies of major developers in the region, which are drawing in these companies. These refurbishments are focusing more on experiential retail, adding another layer of attraction for both brands and consumers.

    Industries Occupying Retail Spaces

    The report also shed light on the dominant industries in retail space occupancy. The food and beverage sector, fast fashion, and general retail were listed as the primary occupiers of retail spaces. Their continued presence and growth contribute to the overall decreasing trend of retail vacancies.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the anticipated retail vacancy rate in Metro Manila by the end of 2022?
    The retail vacancy rate is expected to decrease to 9.5% by the end of 2022.

    What factors are contributing to the decrease in retail vacancies?
    The entry of foreign retail brands into the Philippines market and the accelerated expansion of existing brands are primarily driving this improvement.

    Which industries are the biggest occupiers of retail space in Metro Manila?
    The food and beverage sector, fast fashion, and general retail industries are the main occupiers of retail spaces.

  • Inditex’s Oysho Debuts In Philippines With Innovative Retail Concept At Mall Of Asia

    Inditex’s Oysho Debuts In Philippines With Innovative Retail Concept At Mall Of Asia

    Oysho, an activewear brand under the umbrella of Inditex, the same company that owns Zara, has recently made its grand entrance into the Philippine market with a store opening at the Mall of Asia in Manila.

    A Fresh Concept for Retail Space

    The newly launched 659 square meter, single-level Oysho store is innovatively partitioned into several distinct areas, each offering a unique shopping experience. To begin with, customers are greeted by the Welcome Zone, featuring a ceramic block wall which proudly displays the Athleisure range.

    Following this, there’s the Club Zone, characterized by its oak wood finishes, and the Basics Zone featuring zipper rails for product display. To ensure privacy and comfort during the product trial phase, oak-paneled fitting rooms have also been incorporated into the design.

    The store’s Wow Zone, positioned strategically at the entrance, showcases seasonal collections bolstered by immersive, branded light imagery to captivate and draw in shoppers.

    Consistent Aesthetics and Expanded Presence

    The store’s external facade is adorned with natural stone, giving it a rustic and earthy appeal. Inside, a continuous linear lighting system illuminates the space, delivering a uniform aesthetic throughout the store.

    Oysho’s brand introduction to the Philippines is part of Inditex’s ongoing retail strategy. The company operates eight retail concepts, including Zara, Pull&Bear, and Massimo Dutti. The expansion into the Philippines strengthens Oysho’s presence in Asia, adding to their existing markets in countries such as China and South Korea.

    Questions & Answers

    What makes Oysho’s new store in the Philippines unique?
    The store is uniquely designed with distinct zones, each offering a different shopping experience. It also features branded light imagery and a continuous linear lighting system for a consistent look throughout the space.

    Who owns Oysho?
    Oysho is owned by Inditex, the same company that owns Zara, Pull&Bear, and Massimo Dutti.

    What is the significance of Oysho’s expansion into the Philippines?
    The expansion into the Philippines strengthens Oysho’s presence in Asia, adding to their existing markets in countries such as China and South Korea. It’s an indication of the brand’s growth and success in the Asian market.

  • Analyst Warns: Manila’s Retail Supply Pipeline Set to Challenge Market Resilience

    Analyst Warns: Manila’s Retail Supply Pipeline Set to Challenge Market Resilience

    An estimated 177,000 square meters of new retail space is on the horizon, set to make waves in Manila’s market by the second half of 2025. As the bustling holiday season approaches, tenants are revamping their strategies and gearing up for a promising turnaround. JLL’s latest report highlights that this influx of new store openings in prime malls may counterbalance the negative absorption reported in the first half of the year.

    Market Resilience Faces a Test

    According to the report, the significant volume of new supply is likely to challenge the market’s resilience. However, it also points to a silver lining: improving consumer sentiments and lower borrowing costs are expected to facilitate a gradual absorption of new spaces. With this context, rents are projected to increase by the end of the year alongside a rise in leasing activity.

    Quarterly Trends Revealed

    In the second quarter of 2025, net absorption dipped further to -20,700 square meters, continuing a downward trend that started in the first quarter. Notably, Mandaluyong and Muntinlupa accounted for most of the move-outs, while Quezon City and Makati City saw a flurry of new store openings, reflecting a dynamic albeit challenging landscape.

    The food and beverage sector remains the powerhouse for new store openings, confirming its dominance in the retail space. Interestingly, general retail has also shown resilience, emerging as a top contender for new entries this quarter, signaling ongoing expansion even amid cautious market conditions.

    Static Supply and Rising Vacancies

    Retail supply held steady in Q2 2025 as developers opted to stagger completions to the latter half of the year. With 177,000 square meters of additional space anticipated before year-end, analysts caution that this new supply could further inflate vacancy rates, which already crept up to 7.5%—an increase of 33.9 basis points quarter-on-quarter—mainly attributed to slower store openings.

    Mixed Signals in Financial Metrics

    While retail rents saw a slight uptick of 0.5%, reaching PHP 1,759 per square meter per month, operators are maintaining stable asking prices to keep demand alive. On the investment front, capital values are modestly appreciating at PHP 239,532 per square meter, indicating a careful approach among investors. However, the central bank’s recent interest rate cut to 5.5% is anticipated to boost investor confidence and expedite pending deals as financing becomes more accessible.

    In a retail landscape that seems to be a game of chess, strategists are positioning themselves for the next big play. Who knows? The unexpected twists and turns ahead could make for an exhilarating game as 2025 unfolds.

    Questions & Answers

    What are the key expectations for Manila’s retail market in H2 2025?
    Analysts anticipate a surge of new store openings, totaling 177,000 square meters, which could improve market conditions despite a challenging first half, as consumers become more confident.

    Which areas are experiencing the most retail movement?
    Mandaluyong and Muntinlupa have seen significant move-outs, while Quezon City and Makati City are witnessing a rise in new store openings.

    How are rental rates trending in the current market?
    Rental rates are showing stability with a slight increase of 0.5% in Q2 2025, while operators maintain stable asking prices to foster demand amidst growing vacancies.

  • PLDT and Globe Launch Exciting Laser Internet Pilots, Connecting Remote Areas with Cable-Free Access

    PLDT and Globe Launch Exciting Laser Internet Pilots, Connecting Remote Areas with Cable-Free Access

    The Philippines is witnessing an exciting technological leap as leading telecommunications operators PLDT and Globe Telecom embark on trials and initial deployments of Taara, a cutting-edge laser internet system developed by Google’s ambitious X Moonshot Factory. Launched as an independent Alphabet company in March 2025, Taara leverages free-space optical communication (FSO) to transmit data using invisible light beams, bypassing the hefty costs and logistical hurdles associated with traditional underground fiber cables.

    Redefining Connectivity with Laser Internet

    Often dubbed “fiber without the cables,” laser internet employs concentrated beams of light as “light bridges” to relay data between terminals. Each terminal can connect over a distance of up to 20 kilometers, with extended links achievable by sequentially placing additional terminals. Taara’s innovative Lightbridge system incorporates mirrors, sensors, and precision optics, all governed by smart software that tracks and locks onto light paths. Once aligned, this technology can deliver impressive speeds of up to 20 Gbit/s—providing a fiber-like performance that turns the traditional challenges of installing cables across rivers and rugged terrains into a problem of the past. Of course, if it starts raining cats and dogs, users will have to wait a while for the connection to clear up.

    Strategic Deployments Across the Archipelago

    PLDT is leading the charge with the activation of three strategic Taara sites: Talim Island in Rizal, Dipaluda in Isabela, and Bagong Pag-asa in Quezon City. The link on Talim Island stretches an impressive 11.8 kilometers across the waters of Laguna de Bay, directly connecting the island to the mainland. In Isabela, the system covers a mountainous 13-km stretch, where conventional fiber installation would be prohibitively expensive. Meanwhile, the deployment in Quezon City aims to mitigate single-point-of-failure (SPOF) risks within its metro network, ensuring a more resilient connectivity infrastructure.

    Butch Jimenez, PLDT’s Chief Operating Officer and Head of Network, expressed the significance of the project: “This is a game changer for us in connecting remote areas. It simplifies the process of providing fiber-like internet to new locations. We’re excited for the residents of Talim Island and Dipaluda to experience the benefits of fiber-to-the-home connectivity.”

    Erick Santiago, who heads Network Strategy at PLDT-Smart, emphasized the company’s proactive stance: “We’ve evaluated this technology for over a year. I’m proud of our network team, who made it viable for us to launch it while others are still in the testing phase.”

    Pioneering Technology in Action

    On the other hand, Globe Telecom is also making strides through its subsidiary, Fiber Infrastructure and Network Services Inc. (FINSI). The company recently reported promising results from a pilot run of the Taara system over Laguna Lake. The trial spanned 11 kilometers, with approximately 80% of the connection floating across open water, achieving wireless optical connectivity of 10 Gbit/s. The trials adhered to the Enhanced RFC 2544 test suite for throughput, latency, jitter, and frame loss, alongside a rigorous 24-hour bit error rate test (BERT), all of which met Globe’s stringent technical standards. In short, the future of internet in the Philippines is looking abundantly bright, if not a little sparkly!

    Questions & Answers

    What is Taara and how does it work?
    Taara is a laser internet system that transmits data using invisible light beams, bypassing the need for traditional underground fiber cables. It uses “light bridges” to connect terminals over distances of up to 20 kilometers, delivering speeds comparable to fiber-optic systems.

    What areas in the Philippines are benefiting from Taara’s deployment?
    PLDT is activating Taara in Talim Island, Dipaluda, and Quezon City, targeting remote areas that struggle with conventional fiber internet installation.

    How has Globe Telecom tested the Taara system?
    Globe successfully completed a pilot run across Laguna Lake, covering 11 kilometers with 80% of that distance over open water, achieving connectivity speeds of 10 Gbit/s while meeting technical performance standards.