CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Where you live in Northern Mindanao is making a big difference in how much you pay for everyday needs, with inflation ranging from 8.3% in Lanao del Norte to 4% in Camiguin in July.
The 4.3-percentage-point gap highlights the uneven impact of rising prices across the region, even as Northern Mindanao's overall inflation eased to 6.4%.
Lanao del Norte recorded the region's highest inflation at 8.3%, followed by Iligan City at 7.9%. Meanwhile, Camiguin posted the lowest at 4%, while Cagayan de Oro City registered 4.8%.
Rice remains the biggest pressure
For families across Northern Mindanao, food costs remain a major concern, with rice continuing to drive inflation.
Rice inflation eased slightly to 18.4% in July, from 19.1% in June, but prices remain significantly higher than a year earlier.
Not all food items became more expensive. Meat prices fell 3.3%, while dairy products and fresh fruits also recorded price declines.
Why prices differ by province
The wide gap in inflation rates points to different price pressures across the region.
Lanao del Norte and Iligan City continue to face higher costs amid supply and transport challenges, while Camiguin recorded considerably slower price increases.
For consumers, the regional figures show that inflation may be slowing overall, but relief is not being felt equally.
Families in high-inflation areas continue to face heavier pressure on their food and household budgets, particularly as rice prices remain elevated. (Dave Achondo, Editorial Lead)
