Abstract
This issue delves into key economic and policy challenges shaping regional development, investment, poverty measurement, and productivity in the Philippines. A study on regional income convergence examines whether economically lagging regions are catching up with wealthier ones. While some regions show signs of convergence, others continue to lag, highlighting the need to reassess economic policies. Foreign direct investment (FDI) spillover effects in the Philippines are also scrutinized. While FDI has boosted exports and economic growth, domestic firms have struggled to absorb technology transfers. The study underscores the need for targeted policies to strengthen domestic industries and maximize FDI benefits. On poverty measurement, a new model for constructing poverty lines ensures greater consistency across regions by refining food and nonfood poverty thresholds. Meanwhile, an analysis using Multivariate Adaptive Regression Splines (MARS) offers a more accurate method for identifying poor households, improving the effectiveness of poverty alleviation programs. Finally, a study on total factor productivity growth in the poultry sector demonstrates how input-output tables can be used to measure efficiency gains. Findings indicate that productivity improvements have played a key role in increasing revenues and lowering production costs.
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