MANILA, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Philippine central bank Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Thursday welcomed S&P Global Ratings' affirmation of the Philippines' long-term "BBB+" and short-term "A-2" sovereign investment-grade credit ratings, alongside a continued positive outlook.
The central bank said S&P's decision reflects the country's above-average economic growth potential, strong external position, policy continuity, and ongoing reforms aimed at improving the investment climate.
"S&P's rating decision confirms our view of the favorable long-term economic growth prospects," BSP Governor Eli Remolona said.
The rating agency cited the BSP's track record of maintaining low inflation and its history of independence as key strengths.
While the country's gross domestic product growth eased to 4 percent in the third quarter of 2025 from 5.5 percent in the previous quarter, S&P stressed that the slowdown is temporary.
S&P projects Philippine economic growth at 4.8 percent in 2025, rebounding to 5.7 percent in 2026 and 6.5 percent in both 2027 and 2028.
S&P also expects the Philippines' long-term growth prospects to remain sound and above those of similarly rated economies, supported by policy reforms that encourage foreign direct investment. ■
