Philippine inflation eases but stays high at 6.8% as rate hike looms
Inflation
Though down from April, price growth remains well above central bank target of 2%-4%
Drivers of jeepneys, the Philippines’ iconic public minibuses, face mounting costs as elevated fuel prices continue to ripple through the economy, keeping inflation high despite a slight easing in May. (Photo by Michael Beltran)
RAMON ROYANDOYAN
June 5, 2026 11:40 JST
Updated on June 5, 2026 15:01 JST
MANILA — Philippine inflation registered an elevated 6.8% in May, easing slightly as fuel prices cooled, though the slowdown is unlikely to deter a widely expected rate hike later this month.
