By Xander Ledesma
Negros Oriental’s inflation rate eased notably in 2024, despite the potential disruption posed by Mt. Kanlaon’s ongoing activity, according to an official of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Engr. Ariel Fortuito, chief statistical specialist for PSA-Negros Oriental, stated on Friday that the province’s favorable inflation performance last year reflects effective government efforts to stabilize prices. “Last year was a better year compared to 2023,” Fortuito said during a press conference.
Data from the PSA showed that December 2024’s headline inflation reached 1.0 percent, slightly up from 0.9 percent in November but significantly lower than the 5.6 percent recorded in December 2023. Overall, Negros Oriental’s average inflation rate for 2024 stood at 3.2 percent, with the highest monthly figure occurring in March at 5.8 percent and the lowest in November.
Fortuito attributed December’s minor increase to a combination of rising costs in transportation, housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels. Food, non-alcoholic beverages, and education services also contributed to the slight uptick.
Officials remain alert, however, regarding Mt. Kanlaon’s volcanic activity, which could impact agricultural production in Canlaon City—a key vegetable source for the province. “We remain hopeful that a major eruption will not occur,” Fortuito said, noting that disruptions to coastal waters could also drive up fish prices if the situation worsens.
Despite the looming threat of Mt. Kanlaon, authorities credit enhanced monitoring of commodity prices and inter-agency coordination for helping keep inflation rates in check, illustrating the resilience of the province’s economy in the face of potential natural hazards.