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Louella Desiderio - The Philippine Star
January 6, 2026 | 12:00am
Workers are seen at a manufacturing facility in Santa Rosa, Laguna.
Krizjohn Rosales
MANILA, Philippines — Exports are seen to play a crucial role in sustaining the growth of the country’s manufacturing sector this year, according to the Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI).
In a statement, the umbrella group of manufacturers in the country said that higher exports, particularly, electronics could help support manufacturing growth this year.
“If realized, this export momentum will help sustain PMI (Purchasing Managers’ Index) readings above 50, signaling broader expansion in the manufacturing sector,” FPI said.
Last week, S&P Global said that the Philippines’ PMI rose to 50.2 after November’s four-year low of 47.4, signaling the manufacturing sector’s return to expansionary territory.
“The PMI shows we are back in positive territory—a clear sign of resilience. The challenge and opportunity now is to turn this recovery into lasting industrial strength by investing in innovation, diversification and resilience,” FPI chair Elizabeth Lee said.
To achieve continued manufacturing growth this year, FPI said there is a need to strengthen resilience against climate disruptions and supply chain shocks.
The group said the sector also needs to diversify and go beyond food processing and electronics.
In addition, FPI cited the need to strengthen industries such as machinery, chemicals and wood products to reduce volatility and provide more employment opportunities.
FPI also emphasized the need for reforms to strengthen industrial capacity and ensure manufacturing becomes a stronger growth driver.
It said the Philippines’ manufacturing sector contributes about 15.7 percent of gross domestic product, below the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ 22 to 27 percent.
For the FPI, Republic Act 11981 or Tatak Pinoy Act, which seeks to encourage, support and promote the production of globally competitive Philippine products and services, provides the roadmap for the manufacturing sector.
