THE NUMBER of small businesses applying for loans from the government remains low at about 1,000 a week, though the current average represents a significant improvement from initial numbers, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.

THE Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) said Thursday that the average spot market price in March hit P4.16 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) or nearly double the February level of P2.22 per kWh due to an increase in unplanned generator outages and higher demand.

THE TRANSPORTATION department has started seeking bidders for the tunneling works contract connecting the South Commuter Railway Project to the Metro Manila Subway Project via a station in Taguig City.

A LOWERING of pork tariffs is expected to highlight the diverging interests of meat processors and importers on the one hand, who support the reduction, while exposing hog farmers to increased foreign competition that will harm the industry.

A HOUSE panel approved Thursday consolidated legislation that will set up programs to develop the creative industries.

THE SALE of consumer goods through installment-only purchase schemes has been banned by order of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

THE economic recovery in the Philippines will likely remain slower than most of Southeast Asia this year with the rising coronavirus case count expected to result in extended lockdowns to relieve pressure on the healthcare system, Fitch Solutions Country Risk and Industry Research said.

CELLULAR TOWER construction is expected to accelerate after the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) issued a department order granting telecommunications firms use of the government’s right of way on national roads, Globe Telecom, Inc. said.

ECONOMIC MANAGERS are studying sources of funds for a fresh cash aid program in the event that the lockdown imposed on the capital region and nearby provinces is extended once more or expanded to more areas.

DIGITAL BUSINESS solutions are becoming cheaper in the so-called “new normal” as businesses continue to digitize their processes, a technology industry executive said.

THE Bureau of Customs (BoC) said it generated P138.7 million from the disposal of 586 overstaying containers in the three months to March, part of an overall effort to decongest the ports.

GLOBAL ADVISORY firm Willis Tower Watson said over 80% of Philippine companies plan to use wellbeing programs to attract talent after identifying stress as a major employment issue during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.