The decision of Fitch Ratings, a global credit rating agency, to rate the Philippines as a reliable country to lend money shows that investors trust how President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. handles the economy.

During a briefing at Malacañan Palace on Friday, Department of Finance (DOF) Assistant Secretary Neil Cabiles said ordinary Filipinos would benefit from Fitch’s latest decision to keep the Philippines’ credit rating at “BBB” with a stable outlook.

Fitch Ratings is one of the international credit rating agencies. Its BBB rating indicates that expectations of default risk are currently low.

The Fitch ratings reported on April 29, 2025 mean that the Philippines is projected to have a strong medium-term growth, which supports a gradual reduction in government debt in relation to its gross domestic product.

Cabiles said that credit ratings are essential indicators of a country’s ability to meet its financial obligations.

He said that a “BBB” rating places the Philippines firmly within the investment-grade category, signifying the country’s strong capacity to repay its debts and its low risk of default.

He added that the affirmed rating will impact ordinary Filipinos in two significant ways.

Cabiles said that the government’s stronger credit rating enables it to borrow at lower interest rates, reducing the cost of financing major infrastructure and social development projects. This allows for more efficient and affordable delivery of public services.

The DOF official added that the positive rating enhances investors’ confidence, which can attract more foreign investments and generate employment opportunities for Filipinos.

Cabiles said the latest Fitch rating shows the country’s competitiveness in attracting investments despite ongoing global trade tensions.

The Fitch rating gives credit opinions, or “ratings,” on investments, reflecting a country’s “likelihood” of defaulting on its financial obligations. Investors, investment banks, debt issuers, businesses, and companies use its ratings. | PND