By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
On the heels of recent storms and a major earthquake that shook the island province of Cebu on September 30, the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) continues to find ways to ensure market stability, especially in areas affected by recent calamities.
In a press release on Tuesday, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to ensure adequate food supplies at attainable prices, amid domestic challenges and global headwinds.
This, as the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported a 1.7% inflation rate in September 2025, up from 1.5% in August, signifying a marginal increase in inflation over the previous month.
The uptick is attributed to price increases on certain food products and other commodities, and may have been influenced by recent calamities.
DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan expounded, “The slight uptick in inflation underscores the sensitivity of domestic food prices to supply disruptions. We are working closely with various agencies to stabilize supply, keep essential goods affordable, and safeguard household welfare.”
He added, “The Department of Agriculture will also establish food corridors to minimize supply disruptions. These will feature greenhouses, storage, and post-harvest facilities that can strengthen the resilience of our food systems.”
The Economy chief, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of a ‘calibrated approach’ in boosting productivity and competitiveness in the rice sector, which he touts as pivotal in ensuring macroeconomic stability, fair income for farmers, and palatable rice prices for consumers.
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