January inflation may settle within 1.4-2.2% range'

Inflation in January is expected to remain subdued, with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) projecting the consumer price index to settle within the range of 1.4 to 2.2 percent, reflecting a balance of emerging price pressures and easing cost factors.

- By KEISHA TA-ASAN

In its month-ahead inflation forecast, the central bank said upward pressures could come from higher prices of key food items such as rice and fish, alongside increased domestic fuel costs.

Additional price pressures could also stem from the annual adjustment in excise taxes on alcohol and tobacco, higher water and toll rates as well as the depreciation of the peso.

These factors, however, may be partly offset by lower electricity charges in areas serviced by Manila Electric Co. and stabilizing vegetable prices, the BSP said.