Fragile Peace Jolts PSE Index

The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) index fell on Monday, dropping 44.16 points or 0.72% to 6,054.05, as uncertainty over Middle East peace negotiations weighed on sentiment.

The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) Index, April 13, 2026

The index hit an intraday low of 5,970.75 before recovering slightly toward the close. Only the services sector posted gains, led by International Container Terminal Services Inc..

Market bellwether SM Investments Corporation closed flat at ₱621 after volatile trading, reflecting cautious optimism over a possible extension of the ceasefire.

Foreign investors remained active, with total trades exceeding average levels.

However, net foreign selling reached ₱216 million, with ₱5.08 billion in inflows against ₱5.3 billion in outflows.

Despite hopes for peace, investors sold shares expected to be vulnerable to rising inflation driven by higher oil prices linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Jollibee Foods Corporation dropped 4.48%, while Century Pacific Food Inc. declined 0.62%.

Mining, property, banking, and industrial stocks also fell.

Analysts warned of potential interest rate hikes by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, oil prices staying above $100 per barrel, and weaker remittances from overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East.

Market breadth was negative, with 121 decliners versus 82 gainers. Some optimism remained after a significant drop in diesel prices was announced.