Smooth Flow of Goods Helped Manage PH Inflation Amid Pandemic

The government’s move to ensure that movement of goods throughout the country remain smooth amid quarantine measures due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic helped in managing domestic inflation, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez said Friday.

In a text message, Lopez has welcomed the 2.4-percent inflation rate in August that remains within the 2 to 4 percent target of the government.

“[It’s a] good indication that we are able to manage the production and supply situation despite the lockdowns and pandemic,” he said.

He added that the unimpeded movement of cargoes both for agricultural and essential products as well as other products in the value chain is vital to keep a manageable inflation figure.
“Unimpeded movement of cargo is a nationwide policy emphasized by President Duterte himself,” Lopez said.

“There should be no unnecessary delay at checkpoints and no need for testing of drivers and helpers of trucking services across LGU borders,” he added.

Inflation rate in August is lower than the 2.7 percent in July while year-to-date inflation is at 2.5 percent. (PNA)