CAPIZ — Capiz recorded the lowest inflation rate in Western Visayas at 4.1 percent in July 2026, despite an increase from the 3.9 percent recorded in June, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
The province’s July inflation rate was significantly lower than those posted by other areas in the region. Antique recorded the highest at 9.5 percent, followed by Iloilo Province at 9.3 percent, Aklan at 8 percent, Iloilo City at 7.2 percent, and Guimaras at 4.6 percent.
The PSA said the inflation rate in Capiz was largely driven by higher prices in several major commodity groups.
Housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels accounted for the biggest share of the province’s inflation at 94.7 percent. Clothing and footwear contributed 4.3 percent, while furnishings, household equipment and routine household maintenance accounted for 1 percent.
Among the major commodity groups, transportation posted the highest inflation rate at 11 percent, reflecting higher costs of gasoline and diesel.
Food and non-alcoholic beverages registered a 3.8-percent inflation rate, while housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels recorded 3.5 percent.
The PSA attributed the increase in prices to recent calamities affecting the province, as well as the continuing rise in fuel prices.
The agency said the developments highlight the vulnerability of the local economy to external shocks, particularly those affecting basic commodities, utilities and transportation.
The latest figures also underscore the need for measures aimed at cushioning households from rising prices and maintaining the affordability of essential goods and services in the province.
Despite the increase from the previous month, Capiz maintained the lowest inflation rate among provinces and cities in Western Visayas in July./PN
