Price increases in the Philippines held steady in October, giving consumers a breather as inflation stayed at 1.7 percent — the same pace as in September and slower than 2.3 percent a year ago.

“Inflation in the Philippines remained at 1.7 percent, the same annual growth rate recorded in September 2025,” the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported Wednesday.

A steady inflation rate means prices of goods and services are still rising, but at a slower and more predictable pace, allowing households to better plan their spending.

The PSA said cheaper food and transport costs helped offset higher prices in housing, electricity, and utilities. Food inflation eased to 0.3 percent from 0.8 percent in September, driven by slower price increases in vegetables and meat.

Housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels contributed the most to overall inflation, followed by restaurant services and food. Core inflation, which strips out volatile food and energy prices, also softened to 2.5 percent in October from 2.6 percent a month earlier.

Inflation in Metro Manila quickened to 2.9 percent, while areas outside the capital posted a lower rate of 1.3 percent. 

The state-run statistics body said this balance of trends shows a mix of easing food prices and rising utility cost, which showed a period of relative price stability heading into the holidays.