Filipinos Express Concern over Soaring Prices of Essential Goods
Inflation remains a pressing issue in the Philippines, with high prices of goods and services causing worry among Filipinos. According to a recent survey conducted by Pulse Asia Research Inc., an independent polling firm, 74 percent of the 1,200 adults surveyed expressed concern about the need to control the rising prices of essential commodities. This indicates that inflation is the top urgent national concern for many Filipinos.
The survey, conducted from September 10 to 14, also revealed that public opinion on urgent national matters has remained relatively consistent during this period, except for an 11 percent increase in concerns about controlling the prices of basic goods from June to September 2023. Interestingly, the survey found that the level of concern regarding job creation decreased by 8 percentage points, while concern about poverty reduction decreased by 9 percentage points.
Aside from inflation, Filipinos also expressed concern about increasing workers’ salary (49 percent) and creating more jobs (27 percent). Other significant concerns highlighted by the survey include reducing poverty, fighting corruption, tackling criminality, addressing the problem of involuntary hunger, and supporting farmers.
In addition, it was reported that Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos’ approval rating declined by 15 percentage points to 65 percent in September from 80 percent in June. This decrease in approval rating can be attributed to the elevated prices of commodities, particularly rice.
The government has acknowledged the issue of rising inflation, with the inflation rate reaching 5.3 percent in August after a six-month slowdown. The increase in food and fuel prices contributed to this uptick in inflation.
As Filipinos grapple with the impact of inflation on their daily lives, it is essential for the government to address this concern and implement measures to stabilize prices and mitigate the effects of inflation. Finding ways to increase job opportunities, reducing poverty, and ensuring fair wages for workers are also key areas that demand attention.
The survey results indicate the urgent need for the government to take concrete steps to alleviate inflationary pressures and prioritize the welfare of its citizens. By addressing these concerns effectively, the government can regain public confidence and work towards creating a more stable and prosperous future for all Filipinos.
