CAGAYAN de Oro City — Prices in Misamis Oriental continued to rise in July, but at a slower pace, giving consumers some relief even as food remained a major strain on household budgets.
Inflation in the province eased to 6.1% in July, down from 6.4% in June and the 7.4% peak recorded in May, based on newly released government data.
But the slowdown does not mean groceries have become cheaper.
Food remains the biggest pressure
Food and non-alcoholic beverages recorded 4.9% inflation in July, keeping grocery and market expenses among the biggest concerns for families.
The food pressure was part of three major spending groups that accounted for about 80% of the province's inflation during the month.
Transport costs also remained elevated despite easing to 17.4% in July from 20.8% in June.
Housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels likewise slowed to 5.4%, from 6.2% a month earlier, offering some relief on household utility bills.
Back-to-school costs add pressure
Families also faced rising education-related expenses as the new school year began.
Education inflation turned positive at 0.6% in July, reversing a slight decline in June, amid higher tuition and school-related purchases.
Home maintenance costs rose to 11.3%, while alcoholic beverages and tobacco products increased by 3.1%.
MisOr still pricier than CDO
Misamis Oriental's 6.1% inflation was higher than Cagayan de Oro City's 4.8% in July, showing that price pressures remained stronger in the province.
The spending pressures also differed. In Cagayan de Oro, transport and utility costs were among the major drivers, while food prices played a larger role in Misamis Oriental.
For consumers, the latest figures offer a mixed picture: inflation is slowing, but household budgets are still under pressure because prices remain higher than a year ago. (Dave Achondo, Editorial Assistant)
