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.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is urging Vietnamese automaker VinFast to consider establishing manufacturing operations in the Philippines, as the government accelerates plans for a comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) incentive program.
Cebu-based snack manufacturer Prifood Corp has partnered with COREnergy, the retail electricity arm of Vivant Energy, to supply power to its manufacturing operations in the Philippines.
Prime Energy, the gas exploration arm of Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc., says it is confident it will deliver the first gas from the Malampaya Phase 4 (MP4) project by the fourth quarter of 2026, staying on schedule based on current progress.
The administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. says the Philippines remains on track to achieve upper middle-income status and further cut poverty rates within the President’s term, even as global uncertainties weigh on growth prospects.