PHILIPPINE manufacturers ended 2025 on a cautiously optimistic note. Factory activity climbed above the 50-point mark in December as new orders rose for the first time in four months.
According to S&P Global’s latest monthly survey of around 400 firms, the Philippines’ Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose to 50.2 in December.
This came from a four-year low of 47.4 in November. It was the strongest reading since August, when the PMI stood at 50.8. It also marked a return above the 50-point threshold that separates growth from contraction.
A reading of more than 50 means growth. Less than 50 means a contraction.
The uptick in December was driven by a renewed rise in new order volumes. It ended a three-month period of contraction and prompted firms to resume purchasing activity after months of cutbacks.
Despite the rebound, S&P warned that manufacturers still face “notable headwinds” from weak export market conditions. (Nyah Genelle C. De Leon © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
