Welcome to this week's business news roundup! We're covering a range of topics, from potential international trade impacts to local flight deals and important workplace issues. Stay informed with these quick takes on the stories making headlines.
Trump's Trade War and the Philippine Peso
The potential fallout from Donald Trump's trade war involving Canada, Mexico, and China continues to be a concern for the Philippines. According to former Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas deputy governor Diwa Guinigundo, increased outflows of "hot money" from the Philippines could further weaken the Philippine peso against the dollar. This situation highlights the interconnectedness of global economies and the potential ripple effects of international trade disputes.
“The Philippines needs to be prepared for potential economic headwinds resulting from these global trade tensions,” said one analyst, speaking on background. "A weaker peso could impact inflation and import costs."
Cebu Pacific Launches P29 Flight Promo
Looking for a travel deal? Cebu Pacific has launched a promotional offer with base fares as low as P29 for one-way flights. The promo period runs from March 6 to March 11, making it a great opportunity to snag a budget-friendly getaway. Be sure to check the terms and conditions for availability and applicable fees.
This promotion is a great way to boost tourism and provide affordable travel options for Filipinos. Keep an eye out for similar deals from other airlines!
Maharlika Investment Fund Under Scrutiny
The Maharlika Investment Fund continues to face criticism, particularly regarding its investments in power transmission and mining. Critics argue that these investments fail to address the fundamental issue of insufficient government surplus and risk the nation's finances by spending money that is not readily available. Concerns have also been raised about a junior mining venture, with both business and anti-mining sectors questioning the use of government funds for a project with limited financial capabilities.
“Maharlika’s investments don’t fix the original sin, which is the government’s lack of surplus funds to begin with," one expert stated. "We are gambling away money that we don’t have as a country.”
Addressing Workplace Aggression
Beyond the financial and economic news, it's crucial to address the human element in business. Ignoring workplace aggression can lead to severe consequences, including reputational and financial damage for organizations and significant mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression among employees. Leaders must take action to mitigate such behavior and create a safe and respectful work environment.
"When leaders ignore workplace aggression, organizations can suffer reputational and financial damage — but most importantly, employees can experience serious distress."
It's not just about profits; it's about people. A healthy and supportive workplace is essential for productivity and employee well-being.