The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Board of Investments (BOI), affirmed that the Philippine manufacturing sector’s output grew by 4.9 percent in May, its fastest expansion in 10 months, signaling robust economic activity and boosting job opportunities.
Physical output produced by factories over time, as measured by volume of production index (VoPI), expanded by 4.9 percent year-on-year in May 2025, according to preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries. This marks a continued acceleration from the 4.3 percent growth posted in April.
DTI Secretary and Board of Investments (BOI) Chairman Cristina A. Roque said the sustained rise in industrial production, coupled with increasing investor confidence, is laying the groundwork for significant employment opportunities for Filipinos.
“The surge in manufacturing output in the Philippines shows how we are taking advantage of opportunities to serve growing markets and, importantly, to provide jobs and income for our people,” Secretary Roque said.
The growth in May was primarily driven by a 15.7 percent jump in the food products subsector, which accelerated from its 11.2 percent rise in April. The manufacture of transport equipment also provided a major boost, with output increasing by 13.5 percent, nearly doubling the 7.4 percent growth recorded in the previous month.
Earlier, S&P Global reported that the Philippines’ Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for manufacturing rose to 50.7 in June 2025 from 50.1 in May, indicating a strong improvement in operating conditions.
This positive momentum is translating into tangible investments and jobs, with BOI approving Php15.02 billion worth of manufacturing projects from January to June 2025, projected to generate over 5,000 new jobs.
Secretary Roque stressed that the increased production directly fuels employment.
“This positive outlook on the manufacturing sector is a catalyst for the country’s economic growth and more job opportunities for Filipinos. When factories produce more, they need to hire more workers,” Secretary Roque added.
The DTI-BOI remains focused on its goal to further strengthen the manufacturing sector in the Philippines, positioning the country as a leading hub for smart and sustainable manufacturing and services.
