33% of Filipinos Expect Economy to Improve in Next 12 Months, SWS Survey Reveals

Thirty-three percent of adult Filipinos expect the country’s economy to improve over the next 12 months, according to the latest survey of the Social Weather Stations (SWS). The SWS survey, conducted from June 20 to 29, 2026, and released on Monday, found that 24 percent expected the economy to worsen, while 32 percent predicted it would remain the same. This indicates a mixed sentiment among Filipinos regarding the nation's economic outlook. The Philippine economy is grappling with several challenges, including inflationary pressures, global supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical uncertainties. The government is striving to boost economic growth through increased infrastructure investments and efforts to attract foreign investment, but these measures may take time to translate into tangible improvements for the public. Remittances from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) remain a crucial pillar supporting the Philippine economy, though their stability could be affected by global economic trends. Rising tensions in the South China Sea could also cast a shadow over regional economic stability, posing a risk factor for investors and businesses. In terms of Japan-Philippines relations, economic cooperation and investment play a role in fostering the Philippine economy's development. The survey results will serve as an important indicator for gauging domestic economic sentiment in the Philippines.