Central bank’s independence is intact, says Philippine central bank head, as he elaborates on his vision for poverty alleviation and financial inclusion -- usually the mandate for an elected office.

After years of regulatory horse trading with the market, one of the Philippines' highest profile companies is set to list the country’s first ever REIT. In what is seen as a huge shift in sentiment to the asset class, the country’s high-grade real estate market is, however, under strain from global economic shifts.

After a relatively smooth year in 2017, the financial secretary of the Philippines proposed drastic reform last year over the way government approves and allocates its budget with an aim to support long-term economic growth.

The unexpected appointment of Benjamin Diokno as Philippines central bank governor has raised eyebrows as markets adopt a wait-and-see attitude over his doveish monetary approach.

On the back of a buoyant market, Manila doubled what it raised from a similar dollar bond sale in 2018 and was the year's first Asia sovereign borrower out of the blocks.

After a delay of eight months, the Philippines has announced the winner of a third telecom licence. But legal proceedings could delay matters further.

In the third part of our inaugural China Awards, FinanceAsia is delighted to reveal the winners and rationale behind the awards for Best Deals and Borrowers.