Manila: The inflation rate in La Union rose from 0.8 percent in July to 1.3 percent in August, driven by higher costs in food, non-alcoholic beverages, fuel products, and educational services.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) highlighted that food and non-alcoholic beverages accounted for 43.1 percent of the inflation increase, transport for 38.2 percent, and educational services for 14.5 percent. Malvin Quinto, a supervising specialist at PSA La Union, shared insights during an online forum, emphasizing the significant contributors to the inflation hike.

Among the food items experiencing increased inflation were pelagic fish, which saw a rise from 1.7 percent in July to 8.7 percent in August. Pumpkins, squash, and gourds shifted from a deflation of -0.9 percent to an inflation rate of 17.8 percent. Fresh bananas also saw a substantial increase, jumping from 11 percent in July to 21.2 percent in August.

Fuel prices contributed to the inflation uptick in La Union, with diesel prices moving from a deflation of -6.6 percent in July to -0.9 percent in August, while gasoline prices improved from -12.7 percent to -5.9 percent. Inflation in education services also rose, with primary education inflation surging from 1.3 percent to 17 percent, secondary education from 2.4 percent to 11.6 percent, and early childhood education services from 8.1 percent to 14.8 percent.

Additionally, inflation in housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels saw a marginal increase from 6.5 percent to 6.6 percent. In contrast, sectors such as clothing and footwear, healthcare, recreational activities, sports, cultural events, and restaurant and accommodation services experienced a decline in prices, while other commodities remained stable during the observed period.