The inflation rate in Negros Oriental significantly jumped in March compared to the previous month, largely driven by rising fuel costs and a shortage in local corn supply, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported yesterday.

PSA-Negros Oriental chief statistical specialist Ariel Fortuito said the March inflation rate for all income households was pegged at three percent, a sharp increase from February’s 1.8 percent. The figure is also a stark contrast to the negative 0.7 percent recorded in March last year.

“The main drivers of the acceleration are transport, which saw a 9.6 percent inflation rate and contributed 63.7 percent to the upward trend, followed by food and non-alcoholic beverages at 20.4 percent, and restaurants and accommodation services at 12 percent,” Fortuito said in an interview.

The official attributed the rising fuel prices to the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has impacted the cost of living throughout the province. He noted that the food and beverage sector remains a critical factor in inflation due to the essential nature of consumption.

Under the food and non-alcoholic beverages group, corn specifically contributed 10 percent to the March inflation.

Fortuito confirmed reports from the Department of Agriculture that the province has little to no corn left due to land conversions, adverse weather conditions and declining number of farmers.

The impact was also felt heavily by vulnerable sectors, as food inflation for the bottom 30 percent income households rose to 3.3 percent in March from 2.3 percent in February. This is significantly higher than the -2 percent inflation rate recorded for the same group in March 2025.

Fortuito believes that the upward trend may persist in the coming months as global economic instability continues to affect local prices. (PNA)