Factory output recovers in April

The total factory output of domestic manufacturers reverted to growth in April despite a slower annual increase in food production.

- BEN ARNOLD DE VERA

The Philippine Statistics Authority's (PSA) monthly integrated survey of selected industries (MISSI) report for April 2025, released on Friday, June 6, showed the volume of production index (VoPI)—a proxy for factory output—rose 4.2 percent year-on-year at the start of the second quarter, reversing the two-percent decline last March.

However, VoPI growth in April this year was slower than a year ago's 7.3-percent expansion.

The PSA said 11 out of the 21 industries covered by MISSI recorded growth in April, while the rest posted declines.

The best-performing industries in terms of production volume were food products, basic metals, as well as transport equipment manufacturing.

Food production growth was faster year-on-year—at 11.2 percent in April from 7.2 percent a year ago, although slower month-on-month compared to March's 17.2 percent.