Financial analysts are sounding the alarm: the Philippine peso may depreciate further, potentially breaching the ₱60–₱61 mark against the US dollar by end 2025.

Analysts identify the key drivers of depreciation, to wit:

-Dollar Strength – Elevated interest rates in the United States and persistent global uncertainty have led investors to favor the dollar over emerging market currencies, including the peso.

-Rising Public Debt – The Philippine government continues to borrow heavily to finance infrastructure and social programs, contributing to fiscal pressure.

-Investor Sentiment – Lingering concerns over governance and corruption have dampened investor confidence, further weakening the peso’s position.

But there are economic silver linings. Despite currency headwinds, the Philippine economy is projected to grow by 6.2 percent in 2025—an improvement from this year’s 5.6 percent growth forecast.

The fluctuation of the peso cuts both ways. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and export-oriented businesses may benefit from a stronger dollar, as remittances and revenues gain more peso value. On the other hand, importers, frequent travelers, and consumers of foreign goods may feel the pinch as costs rise.

While the ₱60 threshold is not guaranteed, early preparation is prudent. Citizens are advised to monitor exchange rate movements, inflation trends, and policy signals from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. In uncertain times, financial awareness is key.

As floods continue to devastate communities across the country, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the failure of our flood control projects stems not just from technical shortcomings—but from something far more insidious.

According to a report by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), several lawmakers and government officials are allegedly involved in a multi-billion peso scam tied to these very projects. Among those named are Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva, former congressman Zaldy Co, and officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Commission on Audit (COA).

The report details so-called “ghost projects”—infrastructure initiatives that were never implemented but were nonetheless funded. Corrupt officials allegedly pocketed kickbacks amounting to as much as 30 percent of the total project cost.

If these allegations are true, this is not merely theft. It is a direct assault on the safety, dignity, and livelihood of ordinary Filipinos. Every peso stolen means another family submerged in floodwaters, another child unable to attend school, another community left to suffer.

Denials from the accused are expected. But vague claims of “hearsay” or “political maneuvering” are not enough. These officials must face investigation, and if found guilty, be held accountable.

We can no longer afford to look the other way.

It is time to demand genuine transparency and accountability. Those in power must not be above the law. If we truly want progress, we must dismantle the culture of corruption that continues to plague our institutions. ([email protected])