Good morning. ICTSI just sailed into Philippine market history, becoming the first PSE-listed company worth more than ₱2 trillion. Today’s issue also tracks cheaper digital transfers, stronger OFW remittances, GCash parent Mynt’s bank-beating returns, Filipinas leading Southeast Asia in Gemini use, and humanoid robots entering tomorrow’s operating room. Dive in.

Stay Sharp.

Big picture: International Container Terminal Services Inc. became the first company listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange to close with a market value above ₱2 trillion.

The milestone: ICTSI ended July 14 with a ₱2.01-trillion market capitalization. On July 15, it climbed to ₱2.02 trillion after shares closed at a record ₱999. The stock also reached an intraday high of ₱1,020.

Fast rise: The port operator first crossed the ₱1-trillion mark in September 2025, meaning its market value doubled in less than 10 months.

Zoom out: ICTSI operates 32 terminal and port projects across 19 countries, including 10 terminals in the Philippines.

Bottom line: The milestone reflects strong investor confidence in ICTSI’s leadership, strategy, and continued global expansion.

Digital fund transfers in the Philippines increased by 10 to 50 percent after banks and e-wallets reduced transfer fees, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The BSP said lower costs are encouraging more Filipinos to use digital payments and open financial accounts, supporting broader financial inclusion and accelerating the country's shift toward a cashless economy.

PSEi Reclaims 6,300 as Bargain Hunting Returns

The Philippine Stock Exchange index climbed above the 6,300 level, its highest close in over four months, as bargain hunting and improved global market sentiment revived investor confidence. Gains were supported by easing US inflation, which reduced interest rate concerns, although trading remained relatively muted, reflecting cautious optimism among investors.

ICTSI Becomes First PSE Firm to Top ₱2 Trillion Market Value

ICTSI became the first Philippine-listed company to surpass a ₱2 trillion market capitalization after its shares closed at a record ₱999. The milestone reflects strong investor confidence in the port operator’s global expansion, with ongoing investments to modernize Philippine terminals and boost long-term logistics capacity.

OFW Remittances Rise to $2.7 Billion in May

Cash remittances from overseas Filipinos reached $2.71 billion in May, up 2% year-on-year, bringing total inflows to $14.11 billion in the first five months of 2026. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said resilient remittances continue to support household spending, stabilize the peso, and cushion the Philippine economy despite global uncertainties.

Bea Alonzo shared black-and-white photos from her intimate civil wedding to businessman Vincent Co, confirming their marriage after keeping their relationship largely. (Read more)

Tom Cruise, IShowSpeed Join World Cup Finale

Tom Cruise, IShowSpeed, Jennifer Hudson, Robbie Williams and other stars will headline the FIFA World Cup 2026 closing ceremony before Sunday’s championship match at MetLife Stadium. (Read More)

Farm Fresh, ZUS Join Forces for Taiwan

Farm Fresh and ZUS Coffee will represent the Philippines as Strong Group Pilipinas in Taiwan, using the international tournament to sharpen chemistry before the upcoming PVL season. (Read More)

The big picture: Although Mynt operates outside banking, the GCash parent competes in customer acquisition, lending, payments, and financial products.

By the numbers: Its loan portfolio grew 27.1% year on year in the first quarter of 2026, beating the 5% to 16% growth of banks covered by AB Capital. Mynt posted a 28.8% return on equity, roughly twice the 12.3% to 14.3% range of major banks.

The catch: Risk is higher. Mynt’s bad-loan ratio reached 5.1%, versus 1.6% to 3.1% among covered banks. Its credit costs were heavier.

Bottom line: High pricing, short-term loans, and data-driven lending keep returns strong. Smaller banks may feel the pressure most.

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.

Filipino women lead Southeast Asia in using Google’s Gemini AI, according to Google. The Philippines also recorded high AI use in the BPO sector, particularly for customer service and marketing. (Read more)

Humanoid Robots Complete Gallbladder Surgery in Medical First 

Researchers at the University of California San Diego successfully used teleoperated humanoid robots to perform gallbladder surgeries in animals, marking a major step toward future robotic-assisted operations in healthcare. (Read more)

Meta Sued Over Alleged AI-Driven Layoff Bias 

Twenty-six Meta employees sued the company, claiming AI tools unfairly targeted workers with disabilities or medical leave during layoffs. Meta denied using AI to make workforce reduction decisions. (Read more)

OpenAI Reportedly Developing Screenless AI Smart Speaker 

OpenAI is reportedly developing a screenless AI smart speaker that syncs with ChatGPT, learns user habits, and acts as a home companion. The device remains under development. (Read more)

DOH Keeps Deworming Program After Student’s Death 

The Department of Health will continue its national deworming program, saying it remains safe and effective. The agency is awaiting investigation results on the Grade 4 pupil’s death. 

Study Links Nitrate-Contaminated Water to Premature Births 

A New Zealand study found nitrate exposure in drinking water may be linked to around 120 premature births yearly. Researchers said risks increased as nitrate levels rose, even below legal limits. 

Gum Disease Bacteria Linked to Heart Valve Damage 

Scientists found that bacteria causing gum disease may contribute to heart valve damage by triggering inflammation and calcium buildup. The study suggests oral health may affect the risk of heart conditions. 

Scientists Discover 5-Million-Year-Old Whale Graveyard in Indian Ocean 

Researchers found an ancient whale graveyard deep beneath the Indian Ocean containing hundreds of fossils and active ecosystems. The discovery offers new insights into whale evolution and deep-sea life. 

⚖️ Heated exchanges among senator-judges erupted during Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial over an NBI probe and subpoena requests. (Read more)

🌿 Aeta leaders seek accountability after authorities ordered the closure and rehabilitation of an open dump inside their ancestral domain in Subic. (Read more)

🏫 Bacolod police conduct active shooting simulation exercises in schools to strengthen campus safety protocols for students and personnel. (Read more)

📜 Vice President Sara Duterte says impeachment complaint lacks evidence as Senate trial continues with chief of staff Zuleika Lopez testifying. (Read more)

🕊️ Groups demand justice after American marine scientist Dr. Kent Carpenter was killed in Negros Oriental, highlighting conservation concerns. (Read more)

Ecuador now allows pet-friendly weddings, letting dogs and cats symbolically serve as witnesses. More than 50 couples have included their furry companions in ceremonies, adding sentimental value to marriages.

Solar-Powered Tricycles Help Cubans Amid Fuel Crisis 

Electric tricycles equipped with solar panels have become a key mode of transport in Cuba as fuel shortages and blackouts worsen. Residents use the vehicles for commuting, deliveries, and daily needs. 

Maryland bank robbery suspect steals kitten before holdup 

Police said a Maryland man stole a three-month-old kitten from a pet store before attempting to rob a nearby bank. The suspect was arrested, and the kitten was safely recovered.

📝 Alleged neglect leaves impounded dogs dead in Bataan. (Watch here)

📝 Ivana Alawi surprises fans with plan to buy 100 iPhone 17 units. (Watch here)

📝 Philippine Eagle Sawaga-Dalwangan recovers after rescue from injuries and pellet wounds in Bukidnon. (Read more)

📝 Three Philippine tarsiers rescued from flood risk, released back into forest habitat in Sarangani. (Read more)