Happy Thursday! Today, we track the Philippines’ growing $12.4-billion multilateral loan pipeline, Globe’s profit dip, and four stock calls after the PSEi shake-up. We also look at the country’s first liquid-fueled rocket, a ₱38-trillion forestry opportunity, Alex Eala’s next chapter, and the stories worth knowing before your day gets busy.

Stay Sharp.

The big picture: Apple Pay is now live in the Philippines, letting users pay in stores, apps and websites through iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad and Mac.

Who can use it: Eligible Visa and Mastercard cards from Chinabank, GoTyme Bank, Metrobank and UnionBank are supported at launch. More banks are expected to follow soon.

Where it works: Thousands of merchants already accept the service, including Ayala Malls, Jollibee, Rustan’s, Shopee and foodpanda. Maya Business is also enabling it for more than 5,000 online merchants.

Why it matters: Digital channels already handled 57.4% of Philippine retail payments in 2024.

Safety check: Apple says card numbers are not stored on devices or its servers. Payments require authentication and use encrypted, device-specific payment details.

The Philippines is lining up $3.5 billion more from AIIB, ADB and World Bank, lifting its indicative multilateral loan pipeline to $12.4 billion as concessional financing gradually fades after reclassification.

Globe Profit Falls Despite Record Revenue

Globe Telecom posted record service revenues but reported lower net income after the reduced valuation of its stake in GCash operator Mynt weighed on earnings. The company said its core telecom business remained resilient, supported by steady mobile and broadband demand despite the one-time impact.

DENR Eyes ₱38T in Forestry Investments

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources said the Philippines could attract up to ₱38 trillion in forestry investments through sustainable forest estate development. The initiative aims to create jobs, boost rural economies, encourage private investment, and expand forest-based industries while supporting environmental conservation.

Meralco Defends System Loss Charge

Meralco said removing the system loss charge without changes to current regulations would cause the utility to operate at a loss, as it recovers electricity lost during transmission and distribution. The company said any reforms should balance consumer protection with the financial sustainability of power distributors.

Alden Richards headlines the documentary Kawawa ang Kabataan, highlighting the Philippines' education crisis and urging stronger action to improve learning opportunities and support for Filipino students. (Read more)

Alex Eala Eyes Bigger Wins After Historic Title

Fresh off her breakthrough WTA title, Alex Eala said the victory boosted her confidence as she begins her Toronto campaign, determined to build on her career-changing momentum. (Read More)

Leonardo DiCaprio, Bezos Launch $200M Wildlife Mission

Leonardo DiCaprio and Jeff Bezos unveiled the $200 million Phoenix Species Project to help save 100 of the world's most endangered species through long-term conservation efforts across 30 countries. (Read More)

The big picture: The July 31 PSEi rebalancing created unusual moves. Converge rose despite its removal, while Maynilad fell despite entering the index.

AB Capital’s call: Buy Converge, buy Maynilad on weakness, hold Meralco, and buy Ayala Land over the next three to six months.

Why it matters: The brokerage believes forced selling in Converge has been absorbed, shifting attention back to subscriber additions, valuation and August 13 earnings. Maynilad’s decline appeared driven by trading flows rather than weaker fundamentals.

Meanwhile: Meralco had fallen 18.5% since the SONA as of July 31. A full ban on system-loss recovery could reduce estimated FY2027 earnings by 41%, though AB Capital considers this unlikely.

What’s next: Investors will digest Ayala Land’s August 5 results, while the August 12 MSCI rebalancing announcement is the next major test.

In collaboration with AB Capital Securities. This section is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Please conduct your own research or consult a licensed professional before making investment decisions.

The Philippines will launch its first liquid-fueled sounding rocket in Cagayan in 2027. The project aims to develop future space launch activities and establish the country’s first spaceport. (Read more)

PCA, Japanese Firm To Test Nanotechnology For Coconut Farming

The Philippine Coconut Authority and Mitsui will conduct a two-year field trial using nanotechnology to improve coconut yields, tree health, and farming productivity in the Philippines. (Read more)

UK Trains Future Surgeons Through Robotic Surgery

The UK is expanding robotic-assisted surgeries in hospitals, aiming for nine out of 10 keyhole procedures by 2035. The technology helps surgeons perform complex operations with greater precision. (Read more)

Disney and TikTok Strike Short-Form Video Deal

Disney and TikTok announced a partnership allowing creators to use Disney characters and scenes in short videos. Selected content will also appear on Disney+ to reach younger audiences. (Read more)

Webb Telescope Uncovers Ancient Disaster on Neptune’s Moons

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope found evidence that Neptune’s inner moons formed after a massive collision billions of years ago. Scientists believe the event reshaped the planet’s moon system. 

Study Explains Rise in Cancer Among Younger Generations

A new study found cancer cases are increasing among younger adults, especially gastrointestinal cancers. Researchers are investigating possible causes as more people in their 20s and 30s receive diagnoses.

Total Solar Eclipse Gives Scientists Rare Research Opportunity

Scientists will study the sun during the August 12 total solar eclipse in Spain. The event offers a rare chance to observe the sun’s atmosphere, magnetic field, and solar activity.

Scientists Identify Brain Cells Linked to Motivation

Scientists discovered brain cells that help maintain motivation when tasks become more difficult. The findings could improve understanding of conditions that affect goal-directed behavior and motivation.

🏛️ Malacañang said accountability for the OVP’s confidential funds rests with Vice President Sara Duterte amid ongoing audit findings. (Read more)

⚖️ A COA auditor testified missing confidential fund records created a presumption the money was used for Vice President Sara Duterte’s personal benefit. (Read more)

🤖 Cebu City opened its doors to AI data center investments, aiming to strengthen digital infrastructure, innovation, and technology-driven economic growth. (Read more)

🎭 Two contingents withdrew from Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan 2026 following reported disagreements with organizers before the festival competition began. (Read more)

🕊️ The Senate honored Tacloban school shooting victims and posthumously recognized teacher Rene Baterbonia for protecting students during the attack. (Read more)

Italian garbage workers recovered a €1 million lottery ticket after its owner accidentally threw it away. The winning ticket was found intact after workers searched through collected trash.

UK Startup Launches Painless Permanent Tattoo System

UK-based startup Cipher X developed a tattoo system using microscopic needles that aims to reduce pain. The technology applies permanent ink through a small patch placed on the skin.

Athletes From Pakistan, Uganda Reported Missing After Games

Scottish police are investigating reports of athletes from Pakistan and Uganda who did not return home after the Commonwealth Games. Authorities are assessing the situation and coordinating with officials.

📝 Clothing brand launches t-shirt that needs no washing for a month. (Watch here)

📝 ‘Uncle Ben… and Ben?’: Ben&Ben’s Spider-Man stunt entertains Pinoy fans. (Watch here)

📝 Tate McRae closes Lollapalooza set covered in gold paint with stunning finale. (Watch here)

📝 Thread of Cinemalaya gems you can stream on Netflix. (Read more)