Philippines inflation likely eased in March

The Philippines will release March inflation data on 7 April. Inflation likely remained anchored owing to steady core inflation as most components of core inflation (health, education and recreation) were stable. 

"The inflation to likely to have eased to 2.4% y/y from 2.5% in February (representing a 0.1% m/m fall) on subdued utilities inflation due to the fall in domestic energy prices", says Standard Chartered.  

Food inflation likely eased slightly, owing to a favourable base effect. 

"We expect inflation to remain benign at 2.2% for most of 2015 (2014: 4.2%), although it may rebound in Q4 owing to an unfavourable base effect and if oil prices recover", added Standard Chartered.