What are some real-life signs of inflation that ordinary Filipinos might notice in their everyday lives?
Answer (1)
Ordinary Filipinos can observe inflation in many small but noticeable ways in daily life. One of the most common signs is when the price of basic goods increases—especially for items we buy regularly like rice, eggs, meat, vegetables, and cooking oil. For example, if you used to buy a kilo of rice for ₱40 but now it costs ₱50, that’s a sign that inflation is happening.Another sign is when you notice that your money doesn’t go as far as it used to. A ₱100 bill used to buy several items in the market or convenience store, but now it only gets you two or three things. This shrinking power of money is called the decline in purchasing power, and it's a clear effect of inflation.Public transportation fare hikes are also a sign. When fuel prices go up, jeepney, tricycle, and bus fares often follow. For instance, in 2022, many commuters in Metro Manila noticed fare increases due to global oil price hikes. So even if your daily route stays the same, you end up spending more just to get to school or work.Students and parents may also notice that school supplies become more expensive every year. A notebook that once cost ₱10 may now cost ₱15 or ₱20. Uniforms, tuition, and lunch money all increase over time. This puts pressure on family budgets, especially during the start of the school year.Restaurants and fast-food chains sometimes deal with inflation by doing something called “shrinkflation”—they keep the price the same but make the serving smaller. For example, a burger meal may still cost ₱99, but the fries are fewer, or the drink is smaller. This is another way consumers feel the impact of inflation.Lastly, people often see price adjustments in utility bills. Electricity and water rates may go up due to inflation, especially when production costs increase. All these signs show how inflation directly affects daily life—not just in theory, but in every peso spent.
