NEWSFLASH

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STOCKS POST MINOR GAINS

Manila, Dec. 5, 1997 - The stock market yesterday posted slight gains as bargain-hunters shopped for cheap blue-chip stocks.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index closed 20.24 points higher at 1,7999.49. Gainers outnumbered losers 56 to 3. Around 1.99 billion shares were traded, valued at P94.38 million.

Ramon Miguel Saulo, senior analyst of Asiamerit Securities said there seemed to be renewed confidence in some issues. "It would still have to be seen, however, if the gains would be sustained."

Saulo said it would be best for investors to stay on the sidelines until a clearer trend from the market appears.

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