EMERGING MARKETS-Thai shares gain for fourth day on stimulus push; Philippines steadies
* Thai benchmark index hits highest since Sept. 21 * Most currencies edge up as U.S. dollar nurses losses * Chinese markets reopen after a week-long holiday on Friday By Shruti Sonal Oct 8 (Reuters) - Thai stocks climbed 1% on Thursday as the government outlined measures to boost consumption in its coronavirus-battered economy, while a late recovery helped Philippine shares edge up in tandem with gains in most of Asia's emerging markets. The safe-haven U.S. dollar nursed losses after the revival of hopes for some stimulus spending in the world's biggest economy improved investor sentiment, supporting local currencies in Asia, which edged higher. The Taiwan dollar was again the main standout, rising almost 1%. Thailand's benchmark index hit its highest in more than two weeks after officials on Wednesday added a tax deduction on purchases of goods and services to previously announced cash handouts and subsidies. The tourism-reliant economy