Manila: Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Ralph Recto on Tuesday announced that the government is committed to ensuring that the benefits of a slowdown in inflation are experienced by all Filipino households. He emphasized that despite the decrease in inflation rates, the government remains proactive in its approach to maintain low levels and make a tangible impact on families across the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that inflation dropped to 1.4 percent in April, marking the lowest rate since November 2019. This decrease in inflation provides the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) with the opportunity to potentially reduce policy interest rates, which could enhance the purchasing power of Filipinos, attract more investments, and stimulate economic growth amid global uncertainties.

Analysis of the PSA data shows that, with the exception of the National Capital Region (NCR), every region experienced lower inflation rates in April 2025 compared to March. Specifically, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and Cagayan Valley saw inflation rates drop to 2 percent, with all other regions falling below the government's target range.

Recto highlighted the government's focus on monitoring and addressing price pressures from items such as meat, restaurant services, electricity, and rentals. He stated that the strategy involves addressing external factors and reducing prices for these goods to maintain economic stability.

The government is employing a comprehensive approach to uphold price stability and ensure the availability of affordable food. Measures include strict enforcement of pork price ceilings in response to African swine fever (ASF) supply issues, increasing fish importation volumes, and continuing the rollout of ASF vaccines. Additionally, a pilot program through Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) aims to lower pork retail prices and logistics costs.

Further efforts include maintaining maximum retail prices for imported rice at PHP45 per kilogram in NCR, with a PHP20/kg rice program set to launch post-election aid distribution ban. The government also supports initiatives to mitigate high energy prices by encouraging renewable energy use and promoting cost-effective energy sources.