The Philippine labor market held its ground in April, even as early signs of strain emerged beneath the surface. Unemployment inched up slightly to 4.1 percent, from 4.0 percent a year earlier, yet the economy still managed to add more jobs and keep employment rates above 95 percent—a level considered healthy by most standards.
The country's annual inflation rate dipped slightly to 1.3 percent in May, down from 1.4 percent in April, according to data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority. While the decline is modest, it marks a continued deceleration in price increases, indicating a slower pace of inflationary momentum.
National rice stocks at the start of May were estimated at 2.37 million metric tons, marking a 14 percent increase compared to the same period last year. This growth was primarily driven by the aggressive palay procurement efforts of the National Food Authority (NFA).
Ischaemic heart diseases remained the leading cause of death in the Philippines from January to November 2024, according to new data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
Seasonal patterns boosted chicken and tilapia production in the first quarter but weighed on output of hogs, bangus, and galunggong, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has backed a proposal to declare a state of calamity to mobilize government resources against the worsening effects of El Niño, saying authorities must act quickly as forecasts point to a potentially severe climate event.
Prime Midstream expects demand for natural gas to remain strong as the Philippines faces growing electricity needs, volatile fuel prices and the challenge of balancing renewable energy growth with reliable power supply.
Japanese Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Ono Sho attended the 82nd Anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landings recently at the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, framing his presence as a gesture of friendship spanning the political, defense, economic, and diplomatic spheres.
San Miguel Corp. (SMC) has received recognition from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) for importing nearly USD370 million worth of American agricultural products in 2026, highlighting the Philippines’ importance as a market for US farm exports.