The Philippine stock market kicked off the new year with a significant rally, as investor optimism fueled broad-based gains across the board on the first trading session of 2026.
Market Opens with Robust Gains
On Friday, January 2, 2026, the benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) climbed 82.14 points, or 1.4 percent, to settle at 6,135.06. This positive momentum was not isolated to the main index. The broader All Shares index also advanced, adding 43.81 points for a 1.3 percent gain. Meanwhile, the MidCap and Dividend Yield indices posted even stronger performances, rising by 1.6 percent and 1.2 percent, respectively.
Sector Performance and Trading Activity
The trading day saw nearly universal green across sectoral indices. Gains ranged from a solid 1.3 percent to an impressive 3.1 percent. The lone exception was the Services sector, which experienced a slight decline of one percent. Market activity was healthy, with total value turnover reaching P4.36 billion.
Leadership Cites Governance Reforms as Catalyst
In a statement, Philippine Stock Exchange President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon directly linked the strong opening to renewed investor confidence. He emphasized that this confidence is being rebuilt on the foundation of recent governance reforms and a drive for accountability.
"The success of the administration in exacting accountability from the perpetrators of the corruption scandal and the institution of strong governance reforms are the principal catalysts needed in restoring investor confidence in the country and the stock market," Monzon stated. He added that the first-day gain "augurs well for the much-awaited turnaround of our stock market in the coming year."
Looking forward, Monzon outlined the exchange's ongoing commitment to market development. Key initiatives focus on deepening liquidity, broadening access for both companies and investors, and upgrading technology platforms. The PSE also aims to advance sustainability practices and strengthen the Philippine market's competitive position within the region, working closely with regulators and other participants.
