2026.09.0100:37:44UTC+00Philippines Factory Growth Strongest Since 2016

The S&P Global Philippines Manufacturing PMI climbed to 54.9 in August 2026 from 51.8 in July, marking a fourth straight month of expansion and the sharpest improvement in factory conditions since December 2016. New orders grew at their fastest pace in six months, and new export orders returned to growth for the first time in half a year. Manufacturing output also rose at its quickest rate since December 2016. Firms stepped up their purchasing activity at the fastest pace in six months, while inventories of inputs increased for the first time since February, despite ongoing supplier delays.

Employment rose for the first time in five months, with job creation at its strongest pace in 21 months. At the same time, input cost pressures eased markedly compared with July, and output price inflation slowed to its weakest level in six months. Business confidence surged to its highest point since November 2024, underpinned by expansion plans, new product launches, and expectations of stronger order books and customer acquisition.