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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider The Stock Market devider 7 Philippine firms named to Forbes Asia's 2026 top mid-cap roster

7 Philippine firms named to Forbes Asia's 2026 top mid-cap roster

Published Aug 4, 2026 04:48 pm
Seven publicly listed Philippine companies were included in Forbes Asia’s “Best Under A Billion” 2026 list, which recognizes small and midsized companies that are successfully navigating the challenges of geopolitical tensions and volatile energy markets.
“These 200 publicly listed Asia-Pacific companies, with sales above $10 million and below $1 billion, delivered strong financial metrics to qualify for the 25th edition of the roster,” Forbes Asia said.
On the list are A. Soriano Corp., Apex Mining, Asia United Bank, Far Eastern University, Pryce Corp., STI Education Systems Holdings, and Vivant Corp.
From a universe of over 19,000 listed companies, the businesses on this unranked list were selected based on a composite score using measures such as debt, sales, and earnings-per-share growth over both the most recent one- and three-year fiscal periods, alongside the strongest one- and five-year average returns on equity.
The lineup is dominated by businesses in step with the fast-evolving tech sector and the global AI boom. Software companies, as well as suppliers of key electronic components and tools for semiconductors, account for 25 percent of those that qualified.
Others are capitalizing on the accelerating adoption of EVs and renewable energy by meeting these industries’ growing demand for specialized equipment and services.
As in previous years, China accounts for the largest number of entries (28), with India a close second (27). The number of Malaysian firms more than doubled to 19, with over half benefiting from the country’s AI infrastructure boom. In total, 60 companies are returnees from 2025.
The “Best Under A Billion” list, which started in 2002, has featured some of Asia’s biggest success stories. Notable alumni include tech companies Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent and automaker Geely Automobile from China; India’s software and consulting services companies Infosys and Wipro and biopharmaceutical firm Biocon; Thailand’s retail property developer Central Pattana; popular fast-food chain Jollibee from the Philippines; Taiwan’s food and beverage manufacturer Want Want Holdings; and Malaysia's real estate developer IOI Properties and budget carrier AirAsia. (James A. Loyola)

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