Slower inflation in June has strengthened the government’s case for extending the P50-per-kilo price ceiling on imported rice, with Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. saying stable food prices remain key to easing the cost of living for Filipino households.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) cited lower rice prices as a major factor behind the moderation in inflation, arguing that maintaining the price cap, ensuring sufficient food supply, and improving distribution will help keep prices under control in the coming months.

Inflation eased

June headline inflation eased to 6.4 percent from 6.8 percent in May, while food inflation slowed to 5.4 percent from 5.8 percent, driven by softer increases in rice and fish prices and a sharper decline in meat prices.

“The latest inflation numbers show that keeping food affordable delivers real benefits to Filipino families, especially those who spend a large portion of their income on basic necessities,” Tiu Laurel said.

“We must continue ensuring adequate supply, efficient distribution, and reasonable prices, particularly for rice, so inflation remains manageable while consumers and farmers alike are protected,” he added.

Part of broader efforts

The agriculture chief said the latest data support extending the current rice price ceiling is part of broader efforts to stabilize food markets.