Metro manila: Retail prices of construction materials in Metro Manila inched up in March, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). PSA data released on Monday showed the construction materials retail price index (CMRPI) rose to 1.3 percent from 1.2 percent in February.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PSA attributed the increase to higher tinsmithry material prices, which grew 2.3 percent from 1.9 percent. Faster price gains in masonry, painting materials, and other construction items also pushed the index higher.

The CMRPI tracks changes in average retail prices of construction materials. Retail price refers to the price for spot or earliest delivery, usually in small quantities. Sample stores are selected based on popularity, stock completeness, consistency, permanency, and location.