Central Visayas’ February inflation rate stays at 2.5 percent

Local

WHILE Central Visayas’ inflation rate remained at 2.5 percent in February 2025, the same as in January, the forces driving this apparent stability tell a more complex story.

While the figure remains unchanged, prices in key sectors shifted in different directions, highlighting the ongoing push and pull of economic conditions in the region.

Food and non-alcoholic beverages inflation eased slightly, dropping from 2.9 percent in January to 2.6 percent in February, offering consumers some relief.

The decline was largely driven by lower rice prices, which continued to fall, at a slower rate, from a deflation of -2.9 percent in January to -4.5 percent in February.

Despite this, higher costs in other essential sectors offset the decline, preventing the overall inflation rate from decreasing.

Housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels saw inflation rise from 2.6 percent to 2.8 percent, adding to the financial burden of households already dealing with increased transportation costs.

Transport inflation climbed from 3.2 percent to 3.8 percent, reflecting higher fuel prices and other operational expenses that trickled down to commuters and businesses.

Philippine Statistics Authority-Central and Eastern Visayas Officer-in-Charge Director II Wilma A. Perante clarified that the steady inflation rate does not mean prices have remained unchanged.

She explained that some commodities saw price increases while others decreased, ultimately balancing out the region’s overall inflation rate.

Regional inflation trends also showed mixed results. In Bohol and Cebu, inflation crept up, with Bohol’s rate rising from 2.7 percent to 2.9 percent and Cebu’s from 3.2 percent to 3.5 percent.

On the other hand, several areas saw notable declines, particularly Negros Oriental, where inflation dropped significantly from 1.0 percent in January to just 0.2 percent in February, signaling a slowdown in price increases for essential goods in the province.

The data suggests that while the overall inflation rate appears stable, everyday expenses for residents of Central Visayas remain unpredictable.

Consumers may find themselves paying less for rice but more for utilities and transportation.

Businesses must navigate fluctuating costs in different sectors, while policymakers continue to monitor inflation’s impact on household budgets.(MyTVCebu)