Colliers: Property Sector ‘Unfazed’ by Political Turmoil Amid Duterte’s ICC Arrest

MANILA – Despite the political noise following former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Philippine property sector remains resilient, according to Colliers International Philippines.

At a media briefing in Parañaque City, Colliers senior research manager Joey Bondoc said that developers and investors remain focused on economic fundamentals rather than political tensions.

“Investors and developers are wise enough to tune out political noise and focus on making the Philippines an ideal investment destination,” Bondoc said.

Strong Economic Reforms Drive Market Confidence

Bondoc pointed out that the government’s pro-business policies—such as the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, Foreign Investments Act, and Public Services Act—are boosting confidence in the real estate sector.

He also highlighted that the Philippines’ removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list has lowered transaction costs for overseas Filipinos, allowing higher remittances that fuel property demand.

Shifts in Property Demand

While Metro Manila’s office vacancy rate rose to 19.8% in 2024, Colliers noted an increasing demand for residential and office spaces in regional cities, including:
✅ Iloilo
✅ Bacolod
✅ Pampanga
✅ Cebu
✅ Davao

This shift comes as demand slows in Metro Manila due to the decline of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

Outlook: Focus on Economic Growth

Despite Duterte’s ongoing ICC trial, Colliers and Malacañang both expressed confidence that the property sector will continue thriving, provided that economic reforms remain a priority.