0844 GMT - The Philippines's near-term inflation outlook faces risks including El Niño-related supply disruptions and peso volatility, UOB economists say in a note. Prolonged dry weather could affect agricultural production and raise food prices, especially for rice and vegetables. "Such supply-side pressures typically persist for several quarters and could delay the pace of disinflation," UOB writes. El Niño's impact would be felt more strongly on headline inflation, given that food accounts for a significant portion of the CPI basket. That makes it a key risk factor even as energy prices ease. Still, UOB lowers its 2026 inflation forecast for the Philippines to 6.0% from 7.5% due to factors including the sharper-than-expected easing in headline inflation over the past two months. (amanda.lee@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

July 07, 2026 04:44 ET (08:44 GMT)

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