The PSEi fell in a knee-jerk reaction to the higher tariffs slapped by the United States (US) on products from the Philippines.
The main index lost 101.95 points, or 1.63 percent, to close at 6,145.73, with the retreat led by the services sector, while miners managed to advance as investors bought up gold as a safe haven.
Volume dropped to 1.35 billion shares worth ₱4.62 billion, as losers beat gainers—125 to 71, with 54 unchanged.
“Philippine shares were sold down after holding steady the last couple of trading days as markets around the world reacted [to US] President [Donald] Trump’s tariff rollout,” said Regina Capital Development Corp. Managing Director Luis Limlingan.
He added that, “The White House confirmed the levies would take effect immediately after a 4 p.m. ET [Eastern Time] announcement, though details remain unclear, fueling market uncertainty. Bloomberg reports the administration is still finalizing tariff levels.”
Philstocks Financial Research Manager Japhet Tantiangco said, “The local market was brought down, as investors dealt with the US’ latest tariff announcements, including a 17-percent tariff against the Philippines.
“Sentiment towards the global economy was dampened by the expected negative consequences of the US’ reciprocal tariffs.”