Philippine inflation decelerated to 1.8 percent in March, its slowest pace since the 1.6 percent registered in May 2020 when the economic activities was challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic-related lockdowns. This decline, down from 2.1 percent in February, was largely driven by lower food prices, particularly rice, which saw a significant annual decrease.
Average rates on Treasury bills (T-bills) increased during Monday's auction, ahead of the March inflation data release and the upcoming Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) monetary policy meeting.
The US Federal Reserve decided on Wednesday to keep its benchmark interest rates unchanged, as it awaits new developments that could reshape the economic outlook and inflation trajectory.
Lower food prices in February contributed to a drop in inflation to 2.1 percent for the month. This was slower than both central bank and market forecasts, and marked a significant decline from 2.9 percent in January.
Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto hailed the significant drop in inflation to 2.1 percent in February, marking the lowest rate since October 2024. He said the reduction provides vital relief to lower-income families, particularly on food prices. The bottom 30 percent income group's inflation rate fell to 1.5 percent, further easing the financial strain on vulnerable sectors.
Aboitiz Upgrade Solar Inc. (AUSI), a renewable energy affiliate of Aboitiz Power Corp., has partnered with electronics manufacturer TDK Philippines Corp. (TPC) to install a 5.65-megawatt-peak (MWp) rooftop solar PV system across two TPC facilities in Laguna.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Secretary of Justice Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla as the new Ombudsman, succeeding former President Rodrigo Duterte-appointee Samuel R. Martires whose term ended in July. Remulla, who has served Justice Secretary since 2022, is known for pushing reforms to modernize the justice system and fight corruption. With decades of experience as a legislator and lawyer, he is expected to uphold transparency and accountability. The Marcos administration has reiterated its zero-tolerance of corruption. Ombudsman, the government’s primary graft buster, serves a single 7-year term and can only be removed through impeachment for offenses such as treason, bribery, graft and corruption, or betrayal of public trust.
Targeted efforts by the Department of Agriculture (DA) to manage the supply and pricing of key food items, particularly rice, sugar, and corn, are helping protect the poorest Filipino households from the brunt of inflation, even as overall consumer prices rise.