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Financial Literacy

Peso at record low: Here’s how to stay smart with your money

Sep 22, 2026 · 1 min readBy KasKasan Buddies

With the Philippine peso hitting a record low against the US dollar, here is how Filipinos can manage higher costs on imported goods, travel, and foreign purchases.

  • On March 23, 2026, the peso hit a new all-time low, closing at ₱60.30 against the US dollar. That is worse than last Thursday’s record of ₱60.10.
  • The conflict between the US and Iran is pushing global oil prices higher. Since the Philippines buys oil using US dollars, the demand for dollars goes up, and that makes the peso WEAKER.
  • Here is what that means for your everyday life:

With the Philippine peso hitting a record low against the US dollar, here is how Filipinos can manage higher costs on imported goods, travel, and foreign purchases.

  • On March 23, 2026, the peso hit a new all-time low, closing at ₱60.30 against the US dollar. That is worse than last Thursday’s record of ₱60.10.
  • The conflict between the US and Iran is pushing global oil prices higher. Since the Philippines buys oil using US dollars, the demand for dollars goes up, and that makes the peso WEAKER.
  • Here is what that means for your everyday life:

On March 23, 2026, the peso hit a new all-time low, closing at ₱60.30 against the US dollar. That is worse than last Thursday’s record of ₱60.10.

Why is this happening? 

The conflict between the US and Iran is pushing global oil prices higher. Since the Philippines buys oil using US dollars, the demand for dollars goes up, and that makes the peso WEAKER.

Here is what that means for your everyday life:

🛒 Groceries and imported goods — prices may go up

⛽ Gas and transport — expect more fare increases

🌏 Online shopping abroad — every dollar you spend now costs more pesos

What can you do?

If you shop on foreign websites like Amazon, Agoda, or travel abroad, use a credit card with low or zero foreign transaction fees. This one small move can save you money every time you buy in dollars.

And remember: only spend what you can pay back in full. A weak peso is not a reason to swipe more. It is a reason to be smarter with every peso you have.

For information only. Source: GMA Integrated News, March 23, 2026. Exchange rates change daily. Always verify current rates with your bank.