Inflation Rate Eases, Easing Family Burdens
The inflation rate eases by only 0.1 percent in May, but this small change carries significant relief for Filipino families, local leaders noted. House Speaker Martin Romualdez emphasized that when prices stabilize, households can better manage daily expenses. “Simple man pakinggan, pero malaking bagay ito sa panggastos ng pamilya. Kapag hindi tumataas ang presyo, mas kayang buhayin ang pamilya,” he said.
This easing of inflation means families have more room in their budgets for essentials. “Gumagaan ang pasanin, may pambili ng bigas, pamasahe, kuryente at gamot sa pamamagitan ng mga programa ni Pangulong Bongbong R. Marcos Jr. Hindi na kailangang isakripisyo ang ibang pangangailangan,” Romualdez added, highlighting the government’s efforts to support households.
Current Inflation Trends and Their Impact
According to recent reports, inflation slowed to 1.3 percent in May from 1.4 percent in April. This brings the year-to-date average to 1.9 percent, comfortably within the central bank’s target range of 2 to 4 percent. Experts note this is the lowest inflation rate recorded in over five years.
Romualdez, also president of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats and Leyte’s 1st district representative, described this as encouraging news that should be felt across Filipino homes. Notably, inflation for the bottom 30 percent of households was nearly zero in May, reflecting the government’s success in protecting vulnerable families from rising prices.
“This isn’t just about charts or graphs. This is about the question every parent asks: Is our income enough to get us through the week? Right now, the answer is a little more hopeful than before,” Romualdez said, underscoring the real-life impact of inflation control.
Factors Behind the Inflation Slowdown
The reduced inflation rate is attributed to slower increases in housing, electricity, gas, and water costs, which rose by just 2.3 percent. Food inflation remained low at 0.7 percent, a drastic drop from 6.1 percent the previous year. Transport costs also declined, while core inflation, excluding food and energy, stayed steady at 2.2 percent.
Romualdez praised President Marcos and the economic team for their coordinated efforts in managing inflation. “President Marcos has made inflation control a top priority. The results are now becoming clear — less price volatility, more certainty, and concrete benefits for Filipino households,” he said.
Ongoing Legislative Focus for Lasting Relief
The House of Representatives continues to prioritize measures that protect the purchasing power of ordinary Filipinos. Romualdez affirmed that lawmakers are working on laws aimed at lowering rice prices, supporting farmers, and making basic goods and services more affordable.
“We can’t be complacent just because inflation is low this month. The goal is lasting relief,” he stated, emphasizing the need for sustainable economic support.
For more news and updates on inflation rate eases, visit Filipinokami.com.