The Philippine peso softened against the dollar as markets digested the dual pressures of a slowing economy and intensifying political turmoil ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address.

The currency's decline reflects growing investor caution regarding the administration's ability to sustain economic momentum while pursuing a rigorous anti-corruption agenda.

This repricing comes as the government has already revised its economic growth outlook downward, marking a significant shift from the optimistic projections offered by the president just a year ago.

The adjustment signals that structural headwinds are outweighing earlier policy optimism, prompting a reassessment of risk premiums in emerging-market assets tied to the region.

The political landscape has further complicated the economic narrative, with the Philippine Senate commencing a historic impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte.

This escalation in domestic political conflict adds a layer of uncertainty to policy continuity and fiscal planning, concerns that are increasingly being priced into local debt and equity valuations.