Philippine Inflation Slows to 6.8% in May as Transport Costs Ease

Philippine inflation slowed in May as transport cost pressures eased, with consumer price growth easing to 6.8% from 7.2% in April, according to government data reported by Bloomberg and BusinessWorld. The latest reading came after months of price pressure tied to fuel and transport costs, offering some relief for households and businesses even though inflation remained well above year-earlier levels.

The slowdown was driven in part by fuel price rollbacks and lower transport-related costs, which helped offset broader price increases in food and other essentials. Bloomberg reported that easing transport costs took pressure off prices that had been pushed higher by the effects of the Iran war, while BusinessWorld cited Philippine Statistics Authority data showing the moderation in the inflation rate.