Published February 2, 2021, 5:00 AM Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez said the latest manufacturing index bodes well for the economy as he cited efforts in the cold chain and copper industries development as crucial pillars that will strengthen the country’s supply value chain. The Philippine Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) increased to 52.5 in January from 49.2 the previous month, above the 50.0 neutral mark separating expansion from contraction. January PMI data is the highest in 25 months, even prior to the pandemic, signaling improving manufacturing conditions and indicating the start of recovery of the sector. Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez. (ALFRED FRIAS/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO FILE PHOTO)