Facing a sharp surge in prices driven by global tensions, the Philippine government is ramping up interventions to cushion households from rising costs, particularly in food, fuel, and transport.
The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) said it is accelerating a coordinated response to ease the impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has disrupted fuel supply chains and triggered inflationary pressures across key sectors.
Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the government is prioritizing targeted support to stabilize prices and protect vulnerable groups as economic shocks ripple through the domestic market.
Latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed inflation jumping to 7.2 percent in April, a steep climb from just 4.1 percent in March. The spike was largely driven by higher costs in both food and non-food items.
Transport expenses saw one of the sharpest increases, with operating costs for private vehicles surging, alongside rising electricity and fuel prices. At the same time, food inflation accelerated, led by significant increases in rice, fish, and vegetable prices.
To address these pressures, the government is implementing a broad strategy under its Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) program, a whole-of-government framework designed to stabilize supply and manage costs.
Part of the effort involves securing alternative energy sources and maintaining sufficient fuel reserves. Authorities reported that billions of liters of fuel have already been secured, ensuring weeks’ worth of supply buffer.
Financial assistance programs are also being expanded. Millions of transport workers have received support through subsidies and service contracting, while commuters continue to benefit from discounted fares. Fuel subsidies are likewise being distributed to help ease the burden on affected sectors.
In agriculture, the government is rolling out measures to reduce production costs and protect food supply. These include temporary loan relief for farmers and pilot programs aimed at lowering dependence on expensive inputs such as petroleum-based fertilizers.
To further stabilize food prices, hundreds of “Kadiwa” outlets have been set up nationwide, linking consumers directly with producers to offer more affordable goods.
Balisacan emphasized that the government remains committed to a coordinated and sustained response, focusing on keeping fuel supply stable, prices manageable, and essential support accessible as global uncertainties persist.