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).
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has lifted the temporary ban on the importation of pork and other swine products from Poland, citing the country’s policy on African swine fever (ASF) regionalization.
Cash remittances from overseas Filipinos rose to US$2.9 billion in November 2025, highlighting the continued importance of migrant workers’ income in supporting the Philippine economy.
The Philippines must aim higher—much higher—if it wants growth that is truly inclusive, according to the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII).
The P9 billion-odd market for takaful, or Islamic insurance, remains small in the Philippines but is slowly gaining ground as insurers step up efforts to widen awareness and use, particularly in Mindanao.