The national government has secured a total of ₱507.2 billion from its latest retail treasury bond (RTB) offering, fueled by what officials described as “very strong market demand.”
According to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr), ₱425.5 billion of the total came in as fresh funds, with ₱210 billion raised during the rate-setting auction on August 5. An additional ₱81.7 billion was generated through a bond exchange during the first four days of the offer period. The bonds, which carry a six percent annual interest, will mature in August 2030.
National Treasurer Sharon P. Almanza highlighted the unprecedented level of overseas involvement in the issuance. “Foreign participation [during the RTB sale] is substantial, which we didn’t see in the past,” she told reporters. Previously below five percent, foreign investors’ share surged into double digits this time.
The BTr noted that the proceeds will go toward critical budgetary needs, including projects in education, health, infrastructure, and agriculture. Almanza attributed the strong turnout to “very good fundamentals” and investor confidence that key interest rates may ease further.
To boost participation, the government held roadshows across the country—from Baguio to Davao—and expanded outreach to new areas. Financial literacy sessions were also organized for overseas Filipinos, schools, cooperatives, and local investors.
The 31st RTB issuance was made more accessible with a minimum investment of ₱5,000, available through banks, online platforms, and mobile apps such as OFBank, Landbank, and PDAX. For the first time, Filipinos could also invest through GCash via its GBonds feature.
The BTr emphasized that RTBs remain a win-win tool: they provide safe, fixed income opportunities for investors while enabling the government to fund national programs by effectively allowing citizens to “lend” to the state.
