Published May 24, 2021, 3:03 PM The Philippines is the “clear laggard” in Asia, Moody’s Analytics declared, noting that its economy will likely return to its pre-pandemic levels only by the end of next year. Decentralized health advice alongside the sluggish COVID-19 vaccine rollout is denting the nation’s recovery, an analysis by the US-based economic and financial think tank said on Monday, May 24. Screen Shot 2021-03-11 at 1.21.55 PM In the analysis “The Philippines Struggles to Shake the Pandemic,” Moody’s Analytics said the country, which before the heath crisis was among the fastest growing economies in the region, has fallen behind on recovery compared with its Asian peers.