The Central Bank of the Philippines reported that loans from universal and commercial banks grew 9.8% year on year in June, down from 12.1% in May, amid cautious corporate borrowing and subdued consumer demand. The figures exclude banks’ reverse repurchase agreements with the central bank. Business loan growth slowed to 9.2% from 11.7%, reflecting weaker expansion in construction, education and other service activities, although lending to several major sectors continued to increase. Consumer loans to residents rose 17.8%, down from 19.0%, as credit card and motor vehicle loan growth moderated. Total outstanding loans to resident companies and individuals increased 10.3% and continued to represent the bulk of bank lending.