Phinma maintains outlook despite cost risks, eyes more schools
The Philippine conglomerate reported first-half consolidated net income of ₱363.35 million and is considering education expansion in Vietnam.
Phinma Corp. is keeping its projections unchanged while seeking further education acquisitions, despite potential cost pressures from El Niño and currency volatility, president and chief operating officer Chito Salazar told The Philippine Star.
The Del Rosario Group conglomerate recorded ₱363.35 million in consolidated net income for the first half, an increase from the previous level. Attributable net income also rose, reaching ₱20.11 million, while revenue totalled ₱9.55 billion.
Education growth and greater efficiency in construction materials helped earnings, alongside continuing property and community housing developments. Domestic demand for hospitality remained stable. Salazar said Phinma had modified some systems in response to the economic slowdown.
Salazar warned that El Niño could drive food prices higher and said tensions in the Gulf were contributing to currency fluctuations. He said costs were a greater source of pressure than demand, prompting the group to focus on productivity and efficiency.
For education expansion, Phinma is examining opportunities in Davao, the National Capital Region and Vietnam. It also wants to reach lower-income students in Cebu, a market Salazar said its current school there does not serve.
Phinma Education acquired Southeastern College earlier in 2026, taking its institution count to 12 in the Philippines and 14 across Southeast Asia. Salazar said domestic school expansion would continue even if the group made no additional acquisitions.
